If you’ve recently entered the Catholic Church or are discerning that step through OCIA, this season marks the beginning of something deeply sacred. There’s much to learn and even more to encounter. My hope—through both this post and The New Catholic Welcome Pack—is to offer gentle guidance and encouragement rooted in reverence for Christ and His Church.
Learning Catholic Teachings
The teachings of the Church are not abstract theories; they are the lived truths handed down from Christ to the apostles and into every generation. As a new Catholic, begin with the foundations:
- Study the Catechism of the Catholic Church slowly, prayerfully.
- Look to trusted voices—Bishop Robert Barron, Scott Hahn, and others—whose work makes doctrine accessible without watering it down.
- Don’t rush understanding. Faith deepens through time, silence, and experience.
Participating in Mass
The Mass is the source and summit of Catholic life. Learning to participate is not just about following cues or memorizing responses—it is about entering into the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice.
- Arrive early. Sit quietly, pray, and prepare your heart.
- Follow along with a missal or app if that helps—but don’t worry about getting everything perfect.
- Observe, listen, and respond with your heart. You are part of something eternal.
Developing a Prayer Life
Prayer is the soul's communion with God. It need not be eloquent—it need only be sincere.
- Begin each day with a short prayer, even before getting out of bed.
- Consider learning the Rosary slowly, one mystery at a time.
- Journaling your spiritual journey can help anchor your thoughts and reveal grace as it unfolds.
Understanding Church Traditions
Catholic tradition is a tapestry of truth, time, and testimony. It connects your life today with centuries of witness and wisdom.
- Learn the structure of the liturgical calendar, and orient your seasons toward God’s story.
- Discover the saints—especially those whose lives echo your own struggles and hopes.
- Embrace devotions that lift your soul, whether it’s Eucharistic Adoration, the Angelus, or daily Mass.
If you wish to go deeper, I invite you to explore The New Catholic Welcome Pack. I wrote it to offer clarity and encouragement—not to sell anything, but to offer something true.
Let this be the beginning of a life steeped in grace. The Church is your home now. And Christ Himself walks beside you.