here's something in us that makes us want to accomplish things all by ourselves.  It's hard to do that when we seek a deeper relationship with God and God's Church.  The Internet and e-mail may be wonderful first steps to coming closer once again.  If we receive a response we don't like or read something that turns us off, we can just stop our search and not be hurt or disappointed by the response of someone we've never met anyway.  

How do we find a priest or a Church where we'll feel welcome.  I once asked a little boy in Mexico how we could find a good restaurant.  His response was, "Eat at a restaurant where lots of people are eating."  That's a pretty decent response for finding a Church and a priest as well.  Chances are that if we mention the Church or priests people will have immediate responses and opinions.  Then it makes sense to check it out for ourselves.

We might choose to attend Mass at a Church recommended by a friend.  We can listen to the priest then and decide whether we think he'd be welcoming and friendly.  We can attend Mass at several Churches, or until we find one where we feel we could belong.  Most of us are pretty good judges of that!

I'd be very happy to hear from you, that's for sure.  I'd be happy too, to make the initial contact with the priest of your choice if you'd like me to do that for you.  I know how hard it can be to make that first call.  I'd be happy to help you with that first step.

Click here for a listing of Mass times across the United States.  You can receive the same information by phone, at: 1-800-627-7846

Know that you're very much in my thoughts and prayers as you contemplate this important step!