My Unexpected Journey to Catholic Christianity
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- Опубликовано: 11 сен 2024
- The story of a simple man who loved God, later doubted Christianity, considered atheism, was helped by a friend to believe in a richer Christianity, and slowly, reluctantly realized Christianity has always been Catholic.
I came back to take note of the books and authors you mentioned and I couldn’t but do this that I share with you:
13:45 Ed Feser on Thomas Aquinas
16:20 N. T. Wright “The Resurrection of the Son of God” (on Jesus of Nazareth)
16:35 Mike Licona, Gary Habermas, “The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus”
18:57 C.S. Lewis, “Mere Christianity” (on God)
28:51 David C. Lindberg, “The Beginnings of Western Science”
30:26 Roger E. Oleson, “The Story of Christian Theology” (origin of Baptists)
33:49 Decree on Ecumenism “Unitatis Redintegratio”
38:14 Eamon Duffy, “The Stripping of the Altars”
38:20 Brad S. Gregory, “The Unintended Reformation”
40:15 Ante-Nicene Fathers, vol. 1 (on Baptism / Eucharist)
43:30 J.N.D. Kelly “Early Christian Doctrines” (Eucharist / Baptism)
48:45 St. Augustine “On Faith and Works”
50:00 St. Augustine “On Baptism”
1:03:43 St Augustine; Ignatius; Irenaeus, “Against Heresies”; Justin Martyr; The Shepherd of Hermas (Sacramental world view)
1:07:53 C.S. Lewis, “The Great Divorce” (on Purgatory)
1:09:15 The Protestant Reformation (sermons)
1:10:38 Council of Trent, 21st Session (reform on money and indulgencies)
1:17:00 Alister McGrath, “Iustitia Dei. A History of the Christian Doctrine of Justification”
1:19:53 “The Works of the Law”
1:26:39 “The Canons and Decrees of the Council of Trent”, translated by H.J. Schroeder (on justification)
1:37:49 Brant Pitre “Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary”
1:51:47 Last recommendations: RUclips: Bishop Barron; Fr. Mike Schmitz / Brant Pitre “Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist”, “Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary” / Ignatius of Antioch; Irenaeus, “Against Heresies”; Justin Martyr; Ambrose; St Augustine; Council of Nicea; Council of Trent / Scott Hahn
Addendum: Movies :): 2:30 Nacho Libre and Sister Act / 1:38:10 Raiders of the Lost Ark
Well done. I appreciate your effort.
May God be with you and your loved ones🙏🙏☝🏻
Thank you! This is so helpful. I am rewatching this now to take some notes.
Great notes from you of the wonderful journey and testimony of Roger. God bless.
Thank you for this list!
Thank you so much Maria B for your effort.
Born a Protestant. Became an atheist in college. Became spiritual but not religious twenty years later. Finally became Catholic at 49. It has been a very long and exhausting journey. All I ever wanted was the truth. Catholicism is TRUE. Gloria Excelsis Deo!
Catholicism is false
Jesus is the way the truth and the life
In their writing they pronounce anathema of anyone who believes you are saved by faith alone. And that flies in the face of scripture
For you have been saved by grace through faith not by works lest any man should boast
@CatholicDefender-bp7my then you've slandered me I quoted scripture and that offends you. Catholicism hates the truth and condemns true believers
@@user-gm2hg3rd2k It's propaganda. I've sat in protestant church and witnessed them propagandized through repetition of this slogan. You need to read the New Testament in full and ask yourself where you are confessing your sins.
Welcome home my dear brother in Christ!
I’m a born Muslim woman from Iran and can tell you from bottom of my heart that my conversion to Catholicism was/ is the best gift our dear blessed Lord has granted me a ratchet sinner!
May God bless you and keep you in Christ Jesus! Amen!
God bless you!
Welcome Home!
That’s wonderful! I have been hearing more and more stories of Iranian Muslims encountering Christ and converting ☺️🙏🏻☦️
Deus benedicat Soroush Fetkovitch.
Welcome Home and God bless
I know you’re getting an incredible number of comments here, but here’s one more. I, too, am a convert who was raised Baptist. I’m now two years away from ordination to the priesthood. I really appreciate the simplicity, humility and candor with which you’ve shared your story here. God’s blessings to you and your family.
Thanks for these kind words, and for answering a call to do something so good and worthwhile with your life.
Please when you become a priest, please pray for the decreasing vocations to priesthood. I thank God you have responded to God's call. He needs you especially at this trying times in our Catholic Church. God bless you Father(i don't know your name)....please pray also for my youngest brother. I want him to be a priest too but it's up to him. But I think he will be doing God the most important job when he becomes a priest like you. 😇
Praying for you and all the seminarians! Thank you so much for your "yes"! We need good priests!
Yay! Thanks for answering the Lord’s call (wherever He leads).
Praying for you, we should be praying for all the priests as they are God”s shepherds, praying against temptations
as there will be more evil spirits against those that are prayerful
My family snapped and scream and yelled at me when I told them I was becoming Catholic.
I am a mom of 3 boys. The Holy Spirit kept speaking to me.
I grew up Pentecostal.
Oh goodness! I'm sorry you went through that. That couldn't have been easy. Good on you for doing what's right.
I too was Pentecostal. A lot of strained years with my parents but eventually the Peace of Jesus reigned!
May your Love for Jesus who is our Truth draw you on to your heart's desire and your mind's rest.
Hi @3 Country Boys I read your comment and it reminded me of JRR Tolkien’s quote (Author of The Lord Of the Rings) “My own dear mother was a martyr indeed, and it is not to everybody that God grants so easy a way to his great gifts as he did to Hilary and myself, giving us a mother who killed herself with labour and trouble to ensure us keeping the faith.” Stay strong, friend! I recently came home too and am facing much isolation as well. God bless you!
@@LinhNguyen-hi9skthank you your comment. It is providential and just spoke to what my heart is grieving. 😊 I pray you are doing well! 🙏
Welcome home!
Congrats. I was an Atheist, became a Calvinist and then came to the Church in May of 2021 and it's the best decision I've ever made. There is nothing like sitting in silence with Christ in Eucharistic adoration and then receiving him in the Mass. I can understand why the three wanted to stay with Christ at the Transfiguration.
Well said, fella.
I appreciate your comment.
I came into the church when I was 33 from a Pentecostal background. That was 41 years ago. I always tell my family I have not left behind a single part of my evangelical foundation but have instead been building my faith and my whole life upon it in larger and stronger ways all the time.
After my husband died 17 years ago I pondered going back because we always worked shift and weekends and so did not make a lot of acquaintances in our church but I decided to look into some of the 60 ministries in my local parish... over the past 10 years I have been involved in half a dozen, primarily Prison Ministry, RCIA , Prep and a Charismatic Prayer Group ... I have grown so much in my own person , in my faith and in all of my relationships... Thanks be to God.
May you continue to seek and to serve and be fulfilled in all of your life.
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
@Liz Bethy With all due respect you're wasting your energy... I am sure Mike Winger is a great man and loves Jesus but he's about the most unconvincing individual I've heard in regarding Catholicism. You're best bet are the Reformers and they're still unconvincing. God bless.
As a cradle Catholic you have no idea what it does to me to read stories like yourself. It took me years to obtain the understanding of the Eucharist (actually it took hitting rock bottom in ways). Your conversion stories are ones of HOPE, FAITH and absolute evidence we are on the right paths and it is just so rejuvenating and exhilarating to hear your stories. Thank you. Keep sharing because I just become filled with the Holy Spirit when I read em. Love in Christ ♥️ ✝️
My background is muslim. Conservative af. I was also an atheist for many years because I didn't find peace in what I believed. Seek God, find Jesus. Life has been tough since I convert bcs of my old belief. There are many ugly consequences, such as abandonment, harassment, and threat. I am not afraid anymore. I find my peace within Christ. The beauty of rosary has led me to know Christ more. Thank you for the testimony. It helps me a lot to walk in this path. God bless you.
Thank you for sharing this. I admire your courage to follow Christ, whatever may happen. God bless you.
God bless you and remember our Blessed Mother will always intercede for you. Isaiah 43:1 do not be afraid. So be bold and know you are in the family of our Lord and Saviour. God bless you 🙏🙏🙏🙏
I was called among Muslims in Paris. The Muslims who accepted to pray with me, all saw the Christ, had visions......Do you know Roy Schoeman, a Jewish ex-Harvard professor turned Catholic, after having saw the Virgin Mary? He has a channel. Chant, prayer, teachings.....don’t stay alone, join us, for the times are very bad.
@@tyh3120, Roy Schoeman's testimony is AMAZING! God Bless.
Very nice Truth. But the catholic church is not a branch of denomination. It is in fact the trunk from which all others came, and our Hebrew brothers and sisters are the valid root, or solid foundation which we built upon. ✝️✡️🇨🇦
I'm taking classes to become a Catholic right now, at the age of 63. Life-long Methodist, but always considered the Catholic Church with respect, thanks to my dear Aunt Jean. I feel that the Catholic church 'checks all the boxes' for me, as well as The Blessed Mother, whom I have a particular devotion to. I thoroughly enjoyed your video, and I celebrate your conversion with you, in the name of Christ.
Thank you for sharing this! I wish you well in your classes! It sounds like your Aunt Jean is a wonderful person.
I'm a life-long Methodist, convert to Catholicism, too. It was Mother Mary that brought me in - she was with me my entire life, tugging at my heart. I agree - the church checked the boxes I needed - some that I didn't even realize I needed. God bless!
I will keep you in my prayers while you are going through this journey. In God's time, you will be baptized Catholic through the Holy intercession of our Blessed Mother. Amen!
ruclips.net/video/Aa9OQHXR27A/видео.html the IHM TREE of life project
Jesus Christ was the founder of the Catholic Church, I meet a couple who had a friend age 93 who’s receiving his First Communion and I was very happy and had a glimpse of this gentleman
So never too late to think of age, but if you read the story of St. Paul who was converted when Jesus appeared before him; also the apparition of our blessed Mother in Fatima and Medugore asking for more prayers and conversations.. so happy to learn about your conversion and hope your family and friends will also follow you
More blessings to you and your family
Man, this wasn't a conversion story, this was a whole class
A very enjoyable and brilliant one.
@@peaceandjoy2568 yeah, it was intellectually fulfilling, you could feel his emotion doing it, this video is one of the many little things that enrich the faith
It's everything. You couldn't put it in a box.
@@komnennos
Really so ❤
I am a cradle Catholic, struggled with things that happened, I have been active in my church about 6 years now because I finally figured out that people are broken, misguided and it isn’t the Catholic Church that has a problem, but the people. We are all sinners, but God loved us so much be sent Jesus to show us the way. Excellent and heartfelt talk, thank you so much. I have shared this with others.
Cradle Catholic here too, as you pointed, it is not the church is the people within the church the one that fails, but had failed since the beginning, put it his way, when Jesus was being crucified only John, the youngest one was with him, that means that besides one traitor we had another 10 that at minimum were cowards, as we saw with Peter, and yet Jesus still chose them and put them to work, 2,000 years of the same weak, imperfect people, but that is even more witness to a true Church, what men's institution would have lasted for so long being so corrupted and so mismanaged, not to mention all the other bad issues, and yet still stands after all of this, if it is not because of the Holy Spirit, there is not answer. Dictatorships, empires, kigs, generals, dynasties, have come and go all this time, and the church is still there, One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
@@carlospacheco7361
Thank you , You said it 👏👏
Loved your story. My husband, myself and our 3 children all came into the church last Easter. We converted from Pentecostal Protestantism. Our youngest is considered a cradle catholic because he was only 2 when we came into the church.
Nothing gave us the deep answers we were searching for like the Catholic Church did. Life was dull and miserable before and I just could not simply accept the idea that THAT was all Christianity had to offer. I knew God was greater than what we were experiencing as Protestants.. and I never even thought to give the Catholic Church a second thought… but all the evidence just blasted away all my objections. I give all glory to God and thank our blessed mother Mary for helping to lead us to the truth.
Beautiful story. I completely relate. We were received in 2008 and never looked back. Praise God!
Welcome home! Glory to God in the highest. Glory be to the Father, Son & Holy Spirit. Amen.
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
@@lizbethy3214
Which church do you attend on Sunday,?
Lord Jesus Christ bless you Heather and your family. If only born Catholics had your joy and zeal instead of taking Catholicism for granted!
LETS GOOOO!!! ANOTHER ONE. I too converted to Catholicism from protestantism. Big congrats man, may God bless you. Truth seekers will find the true Church.
Thanks, my Brother! And thanks for watching.
Let's avoid a triumphalist mentality. Roger, throughout his life, has been fed on the scriptures and led by the Holy Spirit. We should be as grateful for those experiences, as for the fact that he has now been led to experience the fullness of the faith, he had already formed.
Welcome home!
@@rogermaxson2512 Patron Saint will be ?
Get home safe.
Welcome home brother to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
Roger my brother, I first watched your videos a couple of years ago, I said a prayer for you that you will come to the Catholic faith, prayers never go wasted.
Wow! Thanks so much for praying for me! That's very touching.
but catholicism isn't Christianity, Pavan.
if you believe it is, i can show you how Scripture proves otherwise and we can enjoy this discussion with Roger seeing first hand how catholicism can't meet God's criteria - and Scripture proving it doesn't.
let me know Sir - thanks for reading.
hope you're safe and warm.
@@tony1685 That's news to more than a billion Catholics, Tony.
@@occamnj it was to the overabundant antediluvians in Noah's day as well, T.
Scripture doesn't lie.
@@tony1685 Well, Tony, you are entitled to your beliefs, even if errant. Praying for you.
You are so marvelously erudite!!! I am a priest of 32 years of priesthood. I was brought up a Baptist too. I converted, entered seminary and ordained. I guess it takes growing up in Protestantism to really understand catholic doctrine. No catholic priest I know understands catholic theology as you do. I do because I researched on my own. If only seminary would teach as you have done in this short video what a different thing the Catholic Church would be. Bravo to you!!
Thank you for serving our Lord in this way!
Unfortunately, I have to agree with you. I'm a little bit upset that I have to learn a lot of Catholic theology from RUclips, considering the fact that I went through 12 years of Catholic school. The best sermons I ever heard were delivered by a priest who converted from Lutheranism. But who knows, if they'd taught me RCC doctrine in Catholic High School I probably wouldn't have paid attention anyway. Teenagers.
Roger, I too needed the full Christianity. I was so lost and wounded, I needed the ICU of Christianity found only in the Catholic Church. Many Different protestants can make it on less but I truly needed the full treatment. Without it, I would stand no chance. Now, by His Grace and the Sacraments, I now have a fighting chance. Praise be to God. Thanks for the video.
I’m a cradle Catholic who has so much respect for those who convert to Catholicism. You all remind me of the many Catholic Martyrs who sacrificed their life for truth. Just know that for all the friends and family that may turn their backs on you, that God has many more waiting to embrace you. God bless you and Semper Fi
Semper Fi, Brother. And thanks.
🕊
I am on the journey as well, baptized Southern Baptist, it began in 2019 during my Masters at Bible college during an assignment on John 6. From then on I began on a journey to figure out what the early church looks like, after all I heard in my Baptist church "we need to be like the early church" and in my Hermeneutics class a former professor "the text cannot mean today what it did not mean 2,000 years ago", by the way he is a Protestant. I've been praying the Rosary for over a year and began doing novenas to saints.
I grew up Southern Baptist.left the faith, came back to the faith and thought to myself, "who is right?". When I read John 6 the meaning was crystal clear.
Amen. Keep going - you won’t be sorry.
You road to Emmaus is leading you into the Catholic Church & the breaking of bread in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Welcome home.
John 6 is what it's all about
Read Ignatius of Antioch.
He pretty much proves that early Church is Catholic.
Peter kreeft also helped me tons. Try reading “Socratic logic” or “handbook of Christian apologetics.”
Love your attitude here. After 40 years as a Protestant (almost a decade as a missionary; Reformed seminary grad), I came into the Church last fall. Praise God. There is ONE holy, Catholic, apostolic Church!
Wonderful! I'm glad you found your way home!
@@rogermaxson2512 sincere question, roger - how can catholicism be His church - when it doesn't fit His criteria?
it doesn't uphold God's Truth - 1 Tim 3:15
it doesn't know God - 1 John 2:3
it doesn't love Christ - John 14:15
it doesn't walk in Truth - 1 John 2:4
these are clear and unquestionable and none in your 'church' can answer these. do you care to take a try?
25 years ago I made the same decision in spite of strong opposition. I have never regretted it. God is good!
Yes He is!
Praise the Lord! I became a Catholic ten years ago, and have never gone back. Peace be with you. ❤️❤️❤️
Wonderful!
I've never seen you before but this video just appeared on my RUclips feed and I am so happy for you. Persevere brother, persevere. I was received into Holy Mother Church on April 17, 2022, and it was the greatest thing I've ever done. Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Thank for the encouraging words. It seems you beat me to the Church!
Hi! I don’t know if you care to read my story, but I definitely listened to all of yours!
I have never been against Catholicism as a Protestant, but I’ve had specific (but typically Protestant) objections (the Pope, praying to saints/Mary, purgatory, etc).
I had an awesome friend in high school who was a somewhat practicing Catholic, so some of my first church experiences was going to Mass early on Sunday morning. I was just grateful to go to church at all because it was all new to me (an agnostic at the time).
Then I dated a Lutheran who became Catholic a couple years into our relationship. Having had that friend who was Catholic, and knowing some of what they believed, I was perfectly fine with this, but stated that I would never become Catholic and he needed to be okay with that. To an extent he was, but it became clear that our differences (me being a charismatic nondenominational Protestant, and him a Catholic convert who at times wished to become a priest) were a little too divisive.
I was always interested in the Catholic faith, and have always affirmed Catholics as Christians. But I can honestly say that I never truly looked into it because I didn’t realize how much there was to know about Catholicism.
Then, two things occurred:
This first one is going to sound incredibly silly. (Side note: I’ve experienced a lot of spiritual warfare/attack. I used to dabble in the occult and was curious about things of that nature.)
There’s a TV show called Evil. It’s about a priest and a psychologist going around and dealing with difficult cases of alleged “possession.” The premise was interesting and my family got into it for awhile. One of the aspects of the show dealt with actual theology surrounding exorcisms.
I wanted to know if some of the information the show was conveying was actually used by the Church. In particular, I first looked into the “stages” of demonic influence (oppression, obsession, possession), realized this was a bonafide concept in Catholicism, and became immensely intrigued by the subject of exorcism. Because of my history with spiritual warfare, I also began to rethink many of my own experiences.
At the time, I was having issue grasping the experiences I was having/had with the demonic. I even leaned toward believing that some of my experiences were not legitimate, simply because I was not finding the right language to grapple with the subject of the demonic from Protestants. Learning about Catholic perspectives on exorcism and the demonic actually cemented, reaffirmed, and even opened my eyes to the demonic (and angelic) experiences I’d had, and it gave me a lot of confidence and knowledge in the subject I never found in Protestantism-including the confidence to deal with it completely once and for all.
Side note: your explanation of justification actually just helped me make sense of some of the things I’ve learned too!
Now, you were a Baptist, so I’m sure you will understand when I say that loads of Protestants neither perform exorcism nor have thoughtful theology or material on this matter. Charismatics sometimes have thought about this in the form of “deliverance,” but I find it hard to seek out good, reliable sources for this field. There are so few because the ministry of exorcism in Protestantism is greatly in lack-which I suspect is partially due to the later adherents to the Reformation, but I won’t go there for now while I pick my brain at it.
Anyway, because I was so excited to learn about exorcism, I ended up listening to many interviews with priests who are ordained exorcists (Father Vincent Lampart is one of my personal favorites to listen to. I’m also recently enjoying “The Exorcist Files” podcast by Father Carlos Martin). This got me immensely invested in understanding Catholicism on a deeper level, but I originally would have never considered pursuing the knowledge so intensely.
Then, the second reason:
I found a podcast on early church history, thought “That sounds cool!”, and started listening. Learning about church history and what early Christians really believed, like you, absolutely CHANGED everything for me. I suddenly began to rethink everything I was ever taught or learned. I had *no idea* what early Christians believed, and being introduced to many of the great thinkers of our faith has made a deep impact on my understanding of Christianity. I began to question very specific aspects of faith that are simply ignored in Protestantism, but were certainly present in the early church.
While I do recognize that going off of what early Christians believe could be a bandwagon fallacy, I definitely would be amiss if I did not consider the words of the church fathers! Learning about them and the things they said have deeply rooted me and my confidence in my faith. I actually am surprised that I am coming away from this newfound knowledge more and not less certain about Christianity. It’s opened a whole new world that’s hard for me to express to my fellow Protestants.
I suddenly have more questions for Protestant denominations than I do for Catholicism and Eastern Orthodox sects. That’s not something I ever thought I would say.
Needless to say, this testimony is reverberating through my soul. It makes me wonder if God is leading me to the Catholic Church, or perhaps the Orthodox Church. I’ve never been closer (even though I dated a Catholic) to joining, and just 6 months ago I could have never seen myself becoming Catholic. Not completely at least.
There are still things I’m wrestling through. But at least I know I’m in good company!
Okay! No worries if you didn’t read this, but honestly, I don’t get to talk about this side of my faith journey much. People around me just do not understand how much this has impacted me and what I do on a daily basis now. Heck, I’m even using a rosary in prayer lately, and I’m not 100% sure about that yet either, but I’m learning more as I go along.
God bless you and your family!
Peace be with you. I hope your journey has taken you completely into the Catholic faith. 🙏
This is a very compelling story. As I listened, I recalled my journey from Protestant missionary and pastor to full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. Like your self-description, I, too, am a simple man with a simple background, who was inspired to search for the truth about the world, humans, and life. I've now been in the RCC for 11+ years. My unquenchable thirst and insatiable hunger for deeper truth has not been satisfied. You will encounter many more questions and mysteries, young man. Enjoy your honeymoon getting to know the beautiful teachings and practices of the RCC. When the honeymoon is over, and it will end, do not stop praying, reading, practicing, and searching. After all, our journey has to do with GOD, who lures us into an ever-deepening and widening search, often having to do with deep, deep darkness (St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Calcutta).
Thank you for this advice and encouragement, Charles.
I’m a cradle Catholic and am rediscovering the Catholic Church.
Thank you you have inspired me for more dedication and time in learning about the early church fathers and the early 1:05:53 church - the Catholic Church .
What dog?
ruclips.net/video/4NE9-Q1D1zs/видео.html
God bless you
The more I absorb about the catholic faith, the more I realize it's the truth.
No other can claim apostolicity and as the Church Jesus founded.
Don't procrastinate any longer. "Submit yr heart before the King."
Come home to the Catholic Church.
Come home.
God is Catholic...everything flows from that.
@@pathue1196 🤲 most definitely.
@@patof72clune51 The only way.
I'm a cradle Catholic who left the church for some time due to incomplete knowledge of my religion. I got convinced Catholicism was wrong because of some RUclips videos I watched, and for a few years was quite anti Catholic as a result. This surprisingly didn't lead me to join any other church, I still believed in Christianity but didn't attend any church service. I just drifted aimlessly for a while. Needless to say, some other RUclips videos brought me back, videos that exposed the lies I had been told regarding my religion. This is the sad thing though, whilst the Catholic Church deems the protestant denominations Christian, they deem us unsaved members of a false church. Glad to have another articulate convert to the Catholic church on youtube who will help counter the misinformation that draws so many away from the fullness of faith. God bless.
To be fair, it is only to be expected that Protestant ecclesial communities (as opposed to orphan start-ups) would find Catholicism to be intolerable, because the justification for their existence depends on Catholicism being intolerable, whereas Catholicism is free to assess each at its true value.
"There are not 100 people who hate the Catholic Church,
But there are millions who hate what they mistakenly think what the Catholic Church is."-
Archbishop Fulton Sheen
"He who steeps himself in history ceases to be a Protestant." ~
St. John Newman, a convert to the Catholic Church
“We began to see that as non-Catholics,
in good faith we had submitted our lives to Jesus Christ on our terms, not his.
We had no other terms.
Our Christian lives had been based on our interpretation of Scriptures or that of other persons
whom we had chosen to follow.” ~ Fr. Ray Ryland Former Episcopalian Priest now Catholic
It is not as bad that every other denomination, group, religion attacks us:
Mathew 5, 11-12
11 Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you because of me.
12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Your “journey” I took in 1998-2000. I became a Catholic, trying to correct the Catholic Church, while in a Baptist College.
God has blessed you, brother. Rejoice.
You made it home before me! :)
The young man here describes a process and a journey that I began in earnest in 1964. He’s wonderfully articulated his experiences as if he meant to depict mine. Until now, I have never come across a convert whose steps conform to those I undertook.
There are lots of us out there. Best 23 and counting years of my life!
Very enlightening, ... very enjoyable from an intelctual and culturaly knowledgeable experience.🙏
Listening to him was like listening to an echo of the last 30 years of my life.
Peace be with you friend. I'm undergoing RCIA right now to become Catholic. It's been such an enriching journey so far filled with joy and surprises. Although I have to wait 2 yrs before I receive my final sacraments, it's a day I am waiting eagerly to be able to be reborn anew and to experience communion with God.
Wonderful!
I can’t relate to how you converted because I’m a cradle Catholic but I can rejoice that you did convert to the true Church of Jesus Christ. All Glory to God🙏
the Catholic Church is the most consistent and coherent among other branches of Christianity. for while the orthodox can rightly share in the origin of its apostolicity, it is devoid of unity compared with the Catholic Church. the Catholic Church is a functioning monarchy that mirrors the kingdom of God on earth. it preserves the teachings of the apostles from its founder Jesus Christ. it is solid in its teaching against abortion and divorce which cannot be said with the orthodox
As a former Roman Catholic and Orthodox convert, I respect your opinion. However, I have to disagree with some statements. I could go all day talking about how the orthodox is the truth… but once you become part of the one and true church, everything that is lacking is no more. The fullness of Orthodoxy is no match. I have never contemplated any thought of returning back to the Catholic Church, because everything I was longing for is there. Catholicism does indeed have apostolic tradition, however… what has Rome done to preserve their tradition? They have ruined their mass in the name of the Novus Ordo!
@@Audleyweir11111 what age were you when you made your decision and how does your theology now in the Orthodox church you have chosen compare to the church you abandoned?
@@Kitiwake I was 17 when I came back to Christianity. I was an atheist for many years. When exploring, I came across the Orthodox faith and realised that it was exactly what I was looking for. Everything from the mysticism, spirituality and theology all came together like a puzzle piece. “Nothing is lacking in the Orthodox Church, because we have Christ, and if you have Christ, you aren’t lacking anything”- Fr Peter Heers. The Phronema of the Orthodox Church is still present until this day, this is why we have the same mindset from 2000 years ago. Plus it’s the only church whose theology makes sense to me. I didn’t abandon the church, just returned to the original church.
What orthodox churches you are belonged to?
@@henryp9046 I was received into the Greek Orthodox Church in 2019. But because it is under the branch of Eastern Orthodoxy, it means that I can attend any Orthodox Church and have holy communion (Serbian, Antiochian etc) if they are canonical.
I am a revert to the Catholic faith after being raised Protestant as well. I myself am Maronite Catholic! God bless you and welcome home, my brother!💙
Wonderful! Thank you very much!
Hello MASONITE CATHOLICS! BLESSINGS AND LOVE TO YOU!!!
Sorry Meant Maronitem
Welcome Home. I made the journey in 1997. I am now a Priest within Holy Mother Church. A Community to be and become rather than doing.
Wonderful!
The most profound, loving, gentle, and thorough analysis, as a convert 53 years ago, the Catholic Church encourages me to live my life , impressed with your honesty, dedication to seek the truth. You are on my prayer list to deal with the possible negative feedback. May you and your family be blessed. Doug
Include me too,in your prayers sir.thank you and God bless.
As a cradle Catholic, I didn't have the difficult journey you did. I got to California in a plane, as opposed to those who had the difficult journey in a covered wagon. I think much more is gained by going the difficult way. Because it was easy to be a Catholic, it was easy to fall away. At 70, I am working harder, and trying to learn more, and not take my faith for granted.
I'm 61. i became Catholic 5 years ago. Welcome Mr Maxson. Peace be with you.
Wonderful!
It was heart warming to listen to your story,and I was sending little arrow prayers up to our God for leading you this far. I am 63 years old, Catholic, and from England. Sir, you have inspired me, in my weakness, and have given me a much deeper appreciation of The Faith handed down to me.
I am in no position to advise you, however I would say that in many ways your battle has just begun. You and your family are now in my prayers, my dear brother, pray for me if you are able.
Pax Christi.
John.
John, thank you for these very encouraging words, your advice, and your prayers. It was very touching. Thank you. I will pray for you tonight, John.
I am greatful that you shared your experience with us. One of my sons is what you so rightfully said:'A young, angry atheist." What you shared might give him some food for thought! I am praying for a long time now for him to turn back to Christ, back to our church and find the true meaning of serving our Lord. I trust that your testimony will lead him to the truth. May you and your family be blessed and protected.
@@mariaellitson6892 Maria, I'm sorry to hear this. As you know, sometimes these things take time. I will make a point to pray for you and your son today.
Amen. "Ten thousand difficulties do not make one doubt." St. John Henry Newman. The fullness of Christianity is found in the Catholic Church! absolutely beautiful testimony.
I usually don't watch videos that are almost 2 hours long. But I was hooked because you gave a very powerful and heartfelt testimony. Thank you.
Thank you for taking the time to watch!
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
@@lizbethy3214 I don't see Trinity in the Bible either, and yet Christians accept this dogma. Why?
If the Catholic Church is not the church established by Jesus then where is this true church now?
You: "Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible".
And yet it is the Catholic Church that gave us the Bible. How can an institution that is fallible produce something infallible?
Me too!
Me too❤️
Roger: As a Catholic revert (I was a cradle Catholic who stopped believing in my early teens only to be led back to the Christ, the Eucharist and the Church is early adulthood) I loved hearing of your journey and your calm, logical, rational presentation of the different and common beliefs held by Roman Catholics and Protestants. Strange as it may seem it was with the help of some believing Pentecostals that I was able to turn back to Christ and begin a journey that led me back to the Catholic Church.
I am now nearly seventy and have suffered greatly over the years observing the horrible faults and failings among the hierarchy, clergy and lay members of the Church. (Including all too often my own failings) Yet in all of this Christ’s church remains. Your clear and moving presentation of the truths underlying the all too human failings of the Church was, and is, a great witness and comfort to me. Your faith gives me renewed strength to carry on and persist in the battle.
Carry on in Christ. I will pray for you and your family. God’s blessings upon you.
JT
Thank you very much for sharing this, JT. God is good.
"Yet in all of this Christ’s church remains." Beautifully, said. Thank you for your prayers. I will pray for you tonight, too.
I too grew up IFB. I converted to Catholicism in 2016 after an honest, uncomfortable awakening to historical Christianity. The best thing I’ve ever done. Wish my family would get onboard but they’re convinced I’m now a part of the Whore of Babylon. There is no way one can read the plethora of early Christian writings and come away Protestant if you’re open to follow truth with intellectual integrity. I’m pumped to see you’ve had the same experience.
There's no way I can read early church history and come away with believing that you can validate the papacy or the maryan dogmas or the nature of salvation as taught by Rome.
I am IFB. Is there any books your read that helped? My family will also think the same. Any helpful advice?
@@Convexhull210 keep reading
@@karmiclaugh what exactly are you looking for? If it is to historically support the papacy, I would recommend Keys over the Christian World
@@karmiclaugh Hi Hope, ironically I have a sister named Hope who is also IFB. I would suggest starting out with the early church fathers. CHURCH FATHERS: FROM CLEMENT OF ROME TO AUGUSTINE
Pope Benedict XVI wrote this book that presents these important figures of early Christianity in all their evangelical vitality, spiritual profundity, and uncompromising love of God. The book is a wonderful way to get to know the Church Fathers and the rich patrimony they have bequeathed to us.
2
FOUR WITNESSES: THE EARLY CHURCH IN HER OWN WORDS
Author Rod Bennett reveals how we can reliably know what the early Church was like, based on the writings of early witnesses to Christianity. These witnesses left an extensive body of documentation on this vital subject, and this book brings their fascinating testimony to life for modern believers.
Highly readable and engaging, this book is a journey of discovery of ancient and beautiful truths through the lives of four great saints of the early Church. It helps readers fall in love with the historic Church that Christ Himself founded.
3
THE FATHERS KNOW BEST: YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE TEACHINGS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
Jimmy Akin of Catholic Answers took a unique approach in writing this book. It’s designed to make it very easy to look up specific topics the Church Fathers discussed. Many of these are moral issues that still come up today, so this book is a handy and useful resource for understanding what early Christians believed about these things.
And one more bonus resource … If you don’t want to read a whole book right now, check out this helpful compilation of the Church Fathers’ writings online. This reading list is short but profound, giving you plenty to ponder as you get to know the Church Fathers.
God bless!
I was not not expecting to stumble upon a dissertation on Catholicism, but I’m happy to have done so. Great work here sir.
Thanks for watching, Bryce
Finally finished it! This is a great resource for anyone looking across the isle and wondering why they should cross it. You made great points and listed helpful resources, and it was all well presented. God bless you man. I hope this video helps many Christian’s for years to come.
I am crying so much...a couple mins near the end...( almost finished watching) when you said to your protestant friends you know we love God...made me cry....I am IFB ...and am deeply seeking truth. I have read my Bible many times. You broke through and touched my heart...I too have thought about Anglicanism about safe middle ground. It seems as a protestant terrifying to consider being RC. My whole life I have been told RC is evil...I am not so sure now...and it is weighing on my heart. I want TRUTH. I heard your heart, truth and struggle of this journey. I am very grateful you made this video and please make another. Please keep me in your prayers as I will you.
Come into the fullness of Christ you will absolutely see the difference within the Catholic Church because it is the One True Church , if you have any questions about the Catholic faith , ask away , God bless you !
@@catholicapologetics7263 I think with the Pope you have it makes it extremely difficult to consider RC. In kindness I ask out of real seeking...how does one submit to an authority who seems to go against Church doctrines? Also in the back of my mind...from upbringing...that in Revelation we are taught RC church is the ***** of Babylon clothed in red and scarlet in 7 hills. I would like to know catholics thoughts on this. How do you explain Revelation and what is the escatology belief of RC? Thank you kindly.
@@karmiclaugh sister you mix a lot of things up
The Vatican is not even on one of those 7 hills of Rome. Ancient jerusalem has also 7 hills btw
@@karmiclaugh Look into your household, within your family. What, if there is no authority, happens to your family?
@@katholischetheologiegeschi1319 I did not know that. Can you please tell me more? Or direct me where to learn more. Thank you.
Been pondering conversion for years - born & raised in the evangelical Lutheran church & am mortified what it has become:( I listen to Relevant Catholic radio & it has brought me a new understanding of the faith
I tried to be an atheist and it is a hopeless life. The world becomes a jungle mentally and emotionally as an atheist. For me, the argument of universal religiosity was a powerful argument. Billions of people, deceived? It wasn't honest to say that the majority of people in the world were delusional. I am currently on my journey to becoming a catholic. I tried the Baptist, Calvinist, Non-denominational churches, etc. But, I never felt like there was any order to these churches, it is a big free for all. I started reading the catechism of the Catholic Church and slowly but surely I will attend my first mass.
Fred, thanks for your comment. I can relate to much of what you say here. I'm glad you're reading the catechism! God bless you on your journey home.
Welcome home! As you will notice, most Catholics do not know the treasure that they have been gifted. But there are few that treasure deeply and struggle their way to holiness. Don't be disappointed and discouraged if you find yourself alone in your gratitude and zeal for God, especially when you are attending Mass at any Catholic churches throughout the world. Catholics attend Mass and then leave as if they have done their duty. Most Catholics do not know how to share their faith. At the end of the day, it's about you and the time you spend with Jesus in adoration and prayers. You are well read, and you will find your way to persevere until the end. Keep your eyes on the crucifix. Don't judge your neighbors (Catholics), for they do not know what they are doing. Be patience in your journey and enjoy your way to holiness. There is so much to learn and discover. For me, other than receiving Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, my greatest joy is seeing people discovering the Catholic faith and making their way home. It is so delightful!
Thanks for sharing this wisdom and encouragement. To be honest, I think, when people say they believe in God, some don't live with the magnitude of that belief. As if it is a small thing. So, I understand if some Catholic Christians sometimes don't live with the magnitude of the treasure of the Holy Eucharist. It's in our nature. May God guard our hearts to treasure Him. And thanks!
@@rogermaxson2512 Amen.
Starting my conversion now from an independent Christian Church. Such good people, but... I have to follow scripture now that I have eyes to see... Good luck to you! 🙏
What a big step! I'll pray for you tonight.
God bless you on your journey! May the Holy Spirit guide you to the Truth!
Wow! "..now that I have eyes to see." the Holy Spirit has worked in you dear. I sometimes envy the Protestants of any denominations, you are non-stop in seeking God, in seeking and searching for more about His fullness. I didn't realise we have the fullness of God in the Catholic Church until I learned so much from Catholic converts like Dr. Scott Hahn, Steven Ray, and from others and by watching Journey Home on EWTN by Marcus Grodi.
@@warriorqueen863 ❤️🔥
@@bluecomb5376 Thank You! ❤️🔥
As a former Baptist who became Catholic I was happy to know the early church were quite fundamentalists.
The catholic Faith is not fundamentalist. It holds to the hierarchial truths. Not to be confused with the Hierarchy.
@@Anon.5216 our truths are indeed viewed fundamentally at the highest levels. And I used the phrase tongue in cheek as I know what the early church believed as a matter of faith that many people would ridicule today. (They took many things literally that modern day Catholics often scoff at, and they did not put it in the realm of natural philosophy but viewed it as revealed by God and miraculous)
Check out book The Early Church Was Catholic by Heschmeyer
Just by Watching Your Video, I Want to Tell You That You Are One of the Pillars in my Process of Surrender Before Christ, I Have Searched Everywhere for Someone Who Shed Light on My Need for God and God Repeatedly Puts Your Video on My Screen and Having Been Born - As a Mexican-Catholic I feel ashamed of never having understood my Creator. I am Developing an Outline for a Video of Real Entry into Catholicism and You Put the words that I don't know how to express in my Mouth...I am Amazed!!! Touching!!! inspiring!!!
you truly seek the truth read your bible. You will not find anything in the bible that approximates Catholicism. Listen to Bill Randles from Believers In Grace, FAI Studios with Dalton Thomas, David Wilkerson, David Pawson, Walter Martin, Charles Lawson, Joe Schimmel, DTBM Online Training with Dr John Barnett, Dave Hunt, Devore Truth with Marco Quintana, FuelProject, PragerU, Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Warren Smith, Adrian Roger's, Last Trumpet Teaching Ministry with Louis Reyneke all on RUclips.
you truly seek the truth read your bible. You will not find anything in the bible that approximates Catholicism. Listen to Bill Randles from Believers In Grace, FAI Studios with Dalton Thomas, David Wilkerson, David Pawson, Walter Martin, Charles Lawson, Joe Schimmel, DTBM Online Training with Dr John Barnett, Dave Hunt, Devore Truth with Marco Quintana, FuelProject, PragerU, Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Warren Smith, Adrian Roger's, Last Trumpet Teaching Ministry with Louis Reyneke all on RUclips.
Thanks so much for sharing this! It's touching to know this video was a help to you. I hope you keep studying and looking up!
I don't know who you are, but you came up in my feed. I am halfway through your video and admire your genuine humility and passion for the truth. Your testimony in this video is a powerful message for others who are considering Catholicism. God bless.
Thank you, Pete. I appreciate the encouragement.
Truth cannot be found in religion, but only by relationship to Jesus Christ. The Only Way to the Father, meaning God, not through men.
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
@@kellyismyname777 religion IS how you tie yourself to God; aka, your relationship with God.
BTW, He gave to His followers a covenant Church and the implication being, be in it.
@@kellyismyname777 a relationship with Jesus is a start but he has called us to so much more. He calls us for unity...for communion with him and with each other...for oneness in body, mind, heart and soul. The Catholic religion provides that unity... especially in the Eucharist where he unites himself to us, body, blood, soul and divinity. This same Eucharist also unites believers truly as Christ's Mystical Body. Rejecting this religion and preferring a mere "relationship" is following Jesus under YOUR own terms, not his.
I’m very happy for you Roger. I’ve taken a similar intellectual journey as yourself and arrived at the same place. I have to say, about two years ago in a comment under one of your videos, you told me that you had prayed for me, and that had a significant effect on me. In hindsight, it helped soften my heart which my intellectual pride had hardened. So thank you for that. And again, I’m delighted that your journey has brought you somewhere so positive.
Thanks so much for sharing this. I remember you, and I'm so glad you've come so far.
I'll pray for you again tonight.
@@rogermaxson2512 your intro some Protestant Lutheran music
@@rogermaxson2512 you need monteverdi vespers
Ha Ha Ha! I got a chuckle out of that. Thanks. Fair point! It's still beautiful, though! But, yes! Monteverdi is profoundly beautiful.
@@rogermaxson2512 it's an embarrassing mistake for a church musician.
Salve frater! As a Baptist convert you will bring a biblical perspective many of us Catholics need. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Thanks for watching and your kind words!
As a cradle Catholic, I have a lot of respect for converts. It cannot be an easy thing, since a lot of people do indeed believe the Church is a cult. Becoming a Catholic is truly countercultural. We live at a time that virtually every religion, life style choice, sexual preference, or belief system is off limits from criticism, EXCEPT Catholicism. It amazes me to hear people who you would never call bigots repeat the most outlandish lies about Catholics. So, welcome to the Faith. I am sure your conversion came at a cost.
It is not as bad that every other denomination, group, religion attacks us:
Mathew 5, 11-12
11 Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you because of me.
12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
I’m a cradle Catholic but I wasn’t a good but thanks to a miracle in my life my catholic faith grew 💯 And even started reading the Bible great story thanks for sharing and. Welcome to CATHOLICISM
The early Christian writings convinced me too.
The Eucharist was essential to the early church.
Also was surprised to find the Mass is entirely biblical.
Very well said!
St.Tarcisius/ St.Imelda Lambertini & St.Julian Emyard.
you truly seek the truth read your bible. You will not find anything in the bible that approximates Catholicism. Listen to Bill Randles from Believers In Grace, FAI Studios with Dalton Thomas, David Wilkerson, David Pawson, Walter Martin, Charles Lawson, Joe Schimmel, DTBM Online Training with Dr John Barnett, Dave Hunt, Devore Truth with Marco Quintana, FuelProject, PragerU, Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Warren Smith, Adrian Roger's, Last Trumpet Teaching Ministry with Louis Reyneke all on RUclips.
@@lizbethy3214 So Liz did your false protestant church corrupt & change/ take out more from your false changed Bible's......
Because like all protestants you don't follow the bible nore do you have the FULL word of GOD.
As the bible says the word of God is more than the bible as it's only source....
You heretics have to stop following Satan & do more damage to the bible by changing it more than you already have.
This is the most thorough, clear and authentic presentation of Catholic Christianity I have heard in a very long time. Thanks so much. Blessings on your continued journey. Peace, Daniel.
roman catholicism is NOT christianity, though christianity as a religion is inundated with pagan roman catholic practices. It is the historical control of the roman empire empowering the roman catholic movement with its ability to throw people in prison etc. if they disobeyed the roman catholic authorities, and the fact that they controlled the scriptures for hundreds of years.
In the dark ages for example, the latin bible was the EXCLUSIVE. If people were caught with the scriptures in any other language they could go to prison! satan has always wanted CONTROL OVER INFORMATION because the spiritual principle is that if you control the information a person receives and what they believe you can control them. Hence even today we see the LYING media shenanigans regarding the covid vaxx etc.
@danielkwlly9678 🎯
My heart aches with joy for you to be back home... Every time one more of you our brethren get reunited in communion with my soul, with God the Father thru Jesus Christ in his Church... with all the angels of heaven, the saints, the pilgrim church, forever united in the love of the Holy Spirit, the Holy Ghost... Beloved you are, welcome home...
Thank you for the welcome, and your kind words.
What a beautiful, cogent, clear, heartfelt talk. Thank you for sharing your education and your love. And most of all, welcome home. I am a Lutheran convert to Catholicism and I’m so happy for you. I had a similar journey but never got so deep into the great theologians and I thank you for all the information. I will be playing this again. God bless you.
Wow. As a person baptized into Christ as a baby in the Catholic Church, this is wonderful.
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
I converted 13 years ago..I'm home! congratulation,you will find such truth and peace and beauty.♥️✝️
Thanks, Wanda. And thanks for watching. I'm glad you found your way home.
Welcome home… I was also a Protestant (Arian heretic without a denomination), who is now a catechumen in the Maronite Catholic rite (getting baptized by Easter!)
Loved and shared your testimony as I have in non-practicing Christians, wayward ones, and atheist family members, so praying that they watch and are moved, GOD willing. (May they come back to Him, and many more people as well... Amen)
I would also recommend a book by John Bergsma, Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
That book speaks a lot of history from a man that is an expert in Old Testament, and points to how the Dead Sea Scrolls actually bridges the gap between Old and New Testament, as the Essenes actually were a Jewish sect that both Pharisees and Sadducees didn’t acknowledge, however they had more scriptures (apocrypha/Deuterocanonical ones) and the last actual anointed high priest before Christ was the head of their sect.
(Long story and Mr. Bergsma answers many questions that we have. It’s also available in audible, which made it easier to digest as sometimes hearing a book is better than reading it… as it might make note taking easier for some.)
But thank you for taking the time to make this video, sharing it wherever I can.
May GOD continue to bless you and everyone. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Wonderful! I'm so glad to hear this! And thanks for the book recommendation.
I want to add that you have a gift of teaching and an ability to keep your audience captivated. I pray that you continue making videos of you journey, to include videos of all that you have learned. I’m sure your busy but 5-10 minute video will feed many souls
Roger,
Jesse is spot on. You hv the gift of teaching, sharing & captivating yr audience. God bless you. Welcome home.
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
@@pathue1196 I agree. I thought I will just listen to maybe 30 minutes of this then watch other things, then I didn't realise I finished an almost 2-hour video and I'm not bored at all. He can be a great teacher at any Catholic schools like what Dr. Scott Hahn is in Stubenville..
So happy for your conversion. I am a Catholic by birth. Despite people around us leaving and criticizing the Catholic faith, I have never in my entire life doubted my religion and faith. I am a Filipino and I find it interesting to learn about some American Catholics because from what I know there are not so many in the US and most are different Christian Denominations. Keep spreading the good news. God bless!
Thanks for sharing, and the encouraging words. Stay strong!
Very articulate. The way you explain things without leaving loopholes makes me think you're a teacher or a debater. This was very engaging, insightful, and inspiring. I didn't know you before now and out of nowhere youtube algorithm suggested your video. May God bless you. Please pray for me, I'm stuck here in the middle east seriously dealing with sloth. I'm feeling hopeful and hopeless and the same time.
Again, thank you for this illuminating testimony. This relapsed cradle Catholic from Africa is inspired and grateful.
@Lerian V may God bless you and heal your Spirit.
Thanks for the kind words! You will absolutely be prayed for tonight.
@@gwenewing6837 Thank you so much. God bless you too.
Thank you for posting this video, I'm very glad to have found and watched it. I was raised atheist/without any belief system, ended up being hardcore atheist. I always thought a lot about the big questions, and when I took my atheism to its logical conclusion I realised that if I was going to continue living at all I had to consider the possibility that I was wrong. Long story short, right now I consider (coherent) atheism to be a limited and incomplete answer to the big questions; one that assumes far too much and dismisses far too much to come to an answer that claims more 'conclusiveness' than it can. Now I'm reading Feser's stuff on Aquinas, I recently read Mere Christianity, and I'm going through the Catechism and Bible in a year podcasts. I'm also watching Baron's series on Catholicism and have been watching many interviews on Pints with Aquinas.
You're probably aware of Matt Fradd and Pints with Aquinas, I think it would be awesome if you could talk with him, you're super eloquent and you've done a lot of work to get to where you are, I think if you share your story more you could help a lot of people. I used to make 'atheistic prayers' asking God for ostentatious displays of his existence, while continuing to live fully turned away from him. I think now if I'm going to find faith, its going to be by reading my way into the church (for others, the path might look quite different) and by seeing the methods people like yourself have used to investigate those big questions. So, thank you again for posting this video, I found it super helpful and inspiring, I'm going to check out the books you recommended. Don't underestimate the value you have here, please continue. Thanks
From what you've written here, you're on a fascinating journey. Are you, or have you thought about, documenting it?
@@brucebarber4104 If I end up somewhere that I'd want other people to also come to, then yea I likely would try and map out my journey in writing. An old friend of mine has been asking the same sorts of questions and we've discussed these things a lot over the years. Its taken me years to make very slow progress though, and it'll probably be much longer still before I have anything that I think would be worth sharing in any detail.
Do you have something like that of your own, or is there something you're looking for?
@@Leraje241, I've recently begun to write things down and I wish I'd have done so sooner. It seems to be therapeutic. Writing thoughts down rather than just having them run around in my head helps because I can organize them. Also, I've been facilitating a study group at Church and it's helpful in that area as well. I'm not looking for anything, just thought it may help you in your journey and in the long run, you may wish to use it to help others in theirs.
@@brucebarber4104 I suppose organizing your thoughts in writing seems like an obviously good idea, thanks for the advice
Thanks for this thoughtful comment. It seems you've taken a very wise and honest first step (and a step or two more).
This might not apply to you, but one thing I had to be mindful of, when I learned this about myself: emotional or existential doubts and despair can sometimes weigh in on our reasoning, and tilt the scales towards atheism or agnosticism. But, I think, our human condition notwithstanding, when we see the fuller picture, we see that classical Christian Theism simply makes more sense than atheism (or, I think, anything else). As you already seem to be aware! And, once we move past the mostly intellectual pursuit to actually living a Christian life, well, it's a real reason for real hope in this life and the next.
At the end of the day, it's a much more joyous look at the cosmos.
Thanks very much for watching! I wish you well as you continue searching. For what it's worth, I will pray for you tonight.
Thank you for your humility. I enjoyed listening to your conversation story. Have heard, ‘weak Catholics become Protestants; strong Protestants become Catholic’ and you definitely embody the second part of this remark.
Welcome home. Keep the Faith. Share the Faith…and may God be with you and your family, now and forever.
Isn't that a good exchange?
Thanks for your kind words
Me tooooo! I was baptist and when I realized they preached the scriptures to make them meet meet their Baptist lenses and omitted many many scriptures that didn’t follow their doctrine. It started my journey to search for the truth. It led me to the church fathers and the church JC founded was revealed. I’m now a catholic and couldn’t be happier! I get the best - the scriptures-traditions--the Eucharist and Jesus himself!! And so much more! The Saints ! I could go on and on. But will just say welcome home brother!!!
God bless. 😊
That's wonderful! Thanks for the welcome!
I am a Catholic convert from Baptist then Methodism. You really touched my heart, this was a fantastic video.
Excellent! Thank you very much for watching and for your kind words.
Just made it halfway and see you have read Ignatius, good job man.
Ignatius of Antioch in 100 AD is certainly describing a church that sounds Catholic. The early church was Catholic, I agree, and the magisterium is a grace. I grew up protestant and church hopped, all different interpretations of scripture, many downright dangerous, I became atheist as an adult and came back to Christ and into the church last year as a Catholic.
I'm glad you came back to Christ. God is good. Thanks for watching!
The influx of new people into the Church is so amazing. I'm a convert as well. Your video popped up in my recommended feed, so I don't know the back story here. But the ending is a good one ❤️ God bless you as you come in the Church.
Welcome home, Samantha.
Thanks, Samantha!
you truly seek the truth read your bible. You will not find anything in the bible that approximates Catholicism. Listen to Bill Randles from Believers In Grace, FAI Studios with Dalton Thomas, David Wilkerson, David Pawson, Walter Martin, Charles Lawson, Joe Schimmel, DTBM Online Training with Dr John Barnett, Dave Hunt, Devore Truth with Marco Quintana, FuelProject, PragerU, Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Warren Smith, Adrian Roger's, Last Trumpet Teaching Ministry with Louis Reyneke all on RUclips.
Mike Gendron, FuelProject, listen to their teachings on Catholicism.
@@lizbethy3214 no thank you. He teaches the same lies that I grew up hearing. I'm glad I learned the truth and became Catholic.
I was blessed to listen to your arduous journey to the Catholic Church . I am a cradle Catholic , listening to your journey deepened my appreciation and practice of the Catholic Faith .
I appreciate you taking time to watch!
I admire your dedication, your constant search for truth and meaning. I'm a cradle Catholic, and I watch mostly Catholic content on youtube. Your video came on automatically after I played Father Mark Gorings latest video. I watched the whole video. I'm always so taken aback by any convert who reads and studies their way to the Church. I'm so lucky to have been born into this Faith, because I don't know that I'd have found it otherwise. God bless you and your family in this new journey and I'm excited for you and everything you are about to learn. This is a beautiful faith. Never stop growing. 🙏
Thanks for taking the time to watch a video by a stranger, and for your kind words. God is good.
I can sense how deep your faith is, my tears flowed as you did, after listening to you, this is the first time l feel I should focus more in my faith. I am catholic from birth as most Filipinos are, now I look forward for more of your videos about our faith. Very well discussed, very enlightening. Thank you very much. Be blessed always, Roger.
I'm glad the video was encouraging to you, Elvira! Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment. Have a wonderful day.
Bro, what a great testimony. I somehow came across your video, sat till you finished. I figured much more from your presentation. Infact, a weak catholic myself this kept me burning. I sometimes felt lost seeing catholic going more low level like protestants. It worries me too. Was comparing traditionalists more suitable in my view. Anyway, for now I must thankyou. I was amazed at your high level of intellect and commitments you put in educating your yourself which benefits many of us too. May God bless.
I've been on this journey you are going through and entered the Church 2014, I was fairly much on my knees pleading for direction, and direction came. It was a very positive time in my life while everyone I know became very negative about my decision.
Darryl, thanks for sharing this. I'm sorry the people you love were negative about your decision. But I appreciate that you did the right thing. I hope, in time, our lives can show others the beauty of the Faith.
God bless you for following the truth even when it was hard! I will pray for you and your family.
Thank you very much for your prayers, Connie.
We sure need you. We need all of you to enrich our Holy Catholic Church. Love ❤️
Thank you for sharing your story. It was a wonderful blessing and encouragement for me.
I think you are like Dr Brant Pitre. You are a brilliant young scholar whose personal holiness and deep love for Our Blessed Lord is inspiring.
you truly seek the truth read your bible. You will not find anything in the bible that approximates Catholicism. Listen to Bill Randles from Believers In Grace, FAI Studios with Dalton Thomas, David Wilkerson, David Pawson, Walter Martin, Charles Lawson, Joe Schimmel, DTBM Online Training with Dr John Barnett, Dave Hunt, Devore Truth with Marco Quintana, FuelProject, PragerU, Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Warren Smith, Adrian Roger's, Last Trumpet Teaching Ministry with Louis Reyneke all on RUclips.
Man I've been tuning in now and then since your original library video. I figured you were going in this direction but it's amazing to see for real. Good luck and congrats!
Thanks! I think I remember your comment on another video. Life is full of surprises, and God is good. Thanks for watching!
God bless you, Roger! I am an 80 year Catholic still learning all the time and rejoicing in all that goes God reveals. I am so blessed by your knowledge, courage, humility, and wisdom. As your friend in the faith, I am praying for you as you proceed in the Fullness of the faith and continue to learn and teach truth. In Christ’s love and mercy.
Thank you for sharing this, and for taking the time to watch this video. You are very kind to pray for me! God bless
That was beautiful! I'm a cradle Catholic but I love to hear conversion stories. I will pray for you.
Thank you, Dawn!
Welcome home, brother! What a blessing this was! I'm so happy for you and your
family! Prayers for you! Please pray for my son, Joshua, to return to his Catholic faith.
Thank you, Colette! I prayed for Joshua last night.
@@rogermaxson2512 thank you so much
I am so excited for you in the Catholic Church! I was baptized Catholic and have been a practicing member all my life. I wish you could come speak to my son's confirmation class. He is going to get confirmed on March 12th, but he is struggling to know why. His teachers only read out of a book. He needs more reasons, and you have put it very well why.I will show him your video and pray for him to feel God's grace. 🙏 🙏🙏
Buy your son a copy of The Faith Explained by Leo Trese and Why We're Catholic by Trent Horn. They will help fill in all the gaps. Theology for Beginners by Frank Sheed is another good one but might be a bit above his grade. It would if you read them as well so you can explain salvation history to him, who Christ is and why He died for us etc.
Wow! Congrats from a 71 Y/O Catholic grandma who follows the truth and this is in the teachings of our wonderful Catholic church. Every day, I can see the awesome work of God. Alleluia!!! You are inspiring. Many blessings!!!
Thank you, Noemi! This was very touching, thanks! Have a wonderful day!
Wow - that was inspiring. Incredible testimony. I admire your unwavering pursuit of the truth and the volume of study you invested in seeking it. You speak with such clarity, calmness and conviction - hopefully others will benefit from this as much as I have. Thank you.
Thank you for the encouragement!
I just got confirmed this weekend. Congrats to you brother!
Welcome home!
Congratulations!
Can't wait to watch this. Really happy for you. Been watching since the very first bookshelf video and I hope you keep making content. You're one of my favorite RUclips intellectual minds that inspire me to read "heavy" literature. Welcome home.
Thanks so much for the kind words and welcome! It's very encouraging to hear that these little videos encourage folks. Happy reading!
Listen to Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Cecil Andrew's and Dave Hunts teaching on Catholicism. Catholic Christianity is an oxymoron and its heartbreaking to hear that you reject the clear teachings of the bible to follow after deep deception cloaked in purple robes. There is no way to God except through Jesus Christ, no man, no pope, no priest, no mother Mary or other dead saints (and a Saint in the bible is simply a believer in Jesus Christ) . Mary is not a coredeemer with Jesus, no where in the boble do you find that, but Mary does say that she's a sinner because she says that she needs a Saviour, a redeemer, because she is lost in her sin without Jesus Christ as her Saviour. Nowhere in the bible does anyone pray a rosary, or are we told to pray with beads and do penance. This is all so sad and so tragic. If you are on the road to Catholicism you are on the road to hell because Catholicism is antithetical to the clear gospel in the bible. We are saved by Grace through Faith and not by works. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Stand in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Ephesians 2:8For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast. My heart breaks for you because you are entering into great darkness, delusion and deception if you enter into Catholicism. Please listen to Mike Gendron, and FuelProjects teaching on Catholicism.
This was just amazing. Thanks a lot for your honesty and the seeking of truth. I will pray for you and your family.
Thank you for praying for us!
Hallelujah praise God.Seek and you will find.🙏❤
I was brought up an atheist and was one my whole life until my 50s (I'm an old man). I started to seriously doubt atheism and especially the materialism out of which it sprang. I started going to the Catholic Church with my wife who had converted from protestantism 10 years earlier, and fell in love with the mass. I converted in 2013. But I still had doubts even after my conversion. Then I read "Atheist Delusions" by David Bentley Hart and that book completely exorcised any atheism still lurking in my soul. I sometimes have some doubts about the Church, but not about God. It's an ongoing journey.
Thanks for sharing this, Ed. David Bentley Hart does have a way of showing the folly of atheism, doesn't he? I'm glad you found your way to God, and to the Church.
David Bentley Hart is a brillaint Orythodox Christian theologian. BTW, he's also a socialist due to his Christian beliefs. I knew him a few years ago when he lived in my city.
@@johnmcgrath6192 I’m a socialist too. But I was one before I was a Christian.
This was so immersive. Someone with little knowledge of the Catholic Church and perhaps riddled with judgments going in could have come out of this talk both completely upended and massively encouraged in a way other Catholic apologists I've seen have not always been objective enough to accomplish. Well done. I thoroughly enjoyed your thesis.
Wow! This helps me a lot! I am currently going thru Bible in a Year with a "cradle-Baptist" friend who does not believe that the 10 commandments apply to her as she has been saved, does not really hold the Old Testament as really important and currently discovering that there is a huge "language barrier" when it comes to our faith and belief. I have noticed that as you talked you are bridging the gap between the Baptist and Catholic culture/language! I will definitely be playing this video over and over! Your love for God shines thru! Will be praying for you and your family! Thank you for sharing!
If you hv a cradle-Catholic friend who knows her faith deeply & loves the Bible, it's time to switch to a new study buddy.
Thanks for these kind words and for watching! Yes, there is definitely a language barrier between Protestant and Catholic Christians. It was only when I began to understand what Catholic (and ancient Christianity) *meant* by their phrases that I understood! Scott Hahn really excels at "translating," as it were, to Baptists and Presbyterians. It's good to see you helping others in Bible study!
Have a great day.
If you truly seek the truth read your bible. You will not find anything in the bible that approximates Catholicism. Listen to Bill Randles from Believers In Grace, FAI Studios with Dalton Thomas, David Wilkerson, David Pawson, Walter Martin, Charles Lawson, Joe Schimmel, DTBM Online Training with Dr John Barnett, Dave Hunt, Devore Truth with Marco Quintana, FuelProject, PragerU, Mike Gendron, Mike Winger, Warren Smith, Adrian Roger's, Last Trumpet Teaching Ministry with Louis Reyneke all on RUclips. Please listen to Mike Gendron and FuelProjects videos on Catholicism.
Your Baptist friend needs to realize that the Commandments do indeed refer to her. Yikes! She is in danger and if she has not kept them, she needs to repent and ask God for forgiveness. I pray for her sake that she will.
Congrats and welcome into the Cathedral! I’m just recently black myself. Blown away by all the young apologetics coming in. Affirming. 🙏❤️🔥
Welcome home brother to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
Thank you!
The paraphrase of C.S. Lewis at 1:50:31 was Lewis’ tongue-in-cheek warning regarding reading G.K. Chesterton. Lewis was confirmed in his atheism until Chesterton broke through. Anyone truly interested in the many wonders of Christianity/Catholicism should make Chesterton must reading.
“We cannot omit the celebration of the Divine Mysteries. The Christian cannot live without the Eucharist and the Eucharist without the Christian. Don’t you know that the Christian exists for the Eucharist and the Eucharist for the Christian? Yes, I participated with the brothers in the meeting, I celebrated the mysteries of the Lord and I have here with me, written in my heart, Divine Scripture. The Eucharist is the hope and the salvation of Christians"
Spoken by Saturninus and his companions before their martyrdom in c.304 when explaining to the Roman judge why they were continuing to meet for the Sunday Eucharist
God bless you Roger. Your story is also a wonderful lecture. The Holy Spirit is shining forth in your talk.
I cannot understand why some Protestants will still remain a Protestant even after hearing a testimony like yours and others like Steve Ray, Scott Hahn, Francis Beckwith. I grew up as a Catholic and I can attest 70% of Catholics are only Catholic by name and not by heart. I experienced this myself until I had a deep conversion and decided to follow every rule the Catholic teaches. It is not easy to become a real Catholic. You cannot receive the holy communion if you committed a mortal sin, you have to go confession, you must be in a state of grace meaning your soul is squeaky clean to receive the communion and to be a real Catholic, being holy. When you say holy, you are living like how the saints lived. Fasting, rosary and if you wear a scapular you have requirements to get the full benefit of those scapular and so on. There are so many Catholics in the world but only few Catholics will really be saved. I really do believe that because I was one of those "many". I know what it likes to be Catholic but not in the state grace. I did the motions in the Catholic mass with no conversion of the heart but now it is a different realm if you aim for holiness and at the same time being a real Catholic. You will be walking the path of the saints.
To be honest, the biggest wall to Catholic Christianity for my Protestant Brothers and Sisters is often what you mention: Catholics who are culturally Catholic, but are far from God. Thankfully, there are so many wonderful, devout Catholic Christians that are helping to change our perception.
Thanks for watching, and for your comment.
Please allow me to agree with you. Its not easy to live Catholic life. Agree that i feel guilty going not receiving communion etc...when i know im not worthy. Very true. Its challenging to live the true standard of Catholic. Thankyou
GOLD. This video is pure gold. Thank you for sharing, for your brutal honesty, for following the Truth where it leads. After 50 years, most all of it a Christian of some type, I converted to Catholicism and I will never look back. It’s like leaving the puddle for the rushing river. I am glad you left your puddle jumping too. Welcome to the RIVER!
Wow! I'm really impressed with how much reading you've done. Your commitment to track down and follow Truth is admirable.
Brother Roger Maxson, Thank you so much this more than a story of conversion this is a teaching on Christian history. I'm so blessed by your teachings about the different areas of Christian doctrines before and now as a catholic. Welcome home.
Thank you!
Absolutely amazing testimony. Thank you for your vulnerability. May God bless you and your family 🙏
Thanks for the kind words, and for taking time to watch!