|
I was baptised at 4 (a little late) and attended Catholic School from K-12th grade. First Communion was 2nd grade, Reconciliation was 4th and Confirmation was done on your own time whenever you were ready. You had to attend Sunday classes for that ( I was 13)
I never ever felt that debate was not allowed. It was openly encouraged. I never heard a nun or priest say that only Catholics were going to heaven. We were taught that anyone who lived good and moral lives were accepted into Heaven just the same. Pro-life and Pro-choice debates were common and no one was chastised for their beliefs. There was no fire and brimstone talk. No fear of God put into us. No threats of being hellbound. I feel like it was just such a relaxed atmosphere in which to be raised and I hope to give my daughter a Catholic education as well. She can make up her own mind whether or not to be confirmed.
My 5 yr old nephew has been attending a Baptist Pre-K and I am shocked at the things that come out of his mouth. He sings songs about the "blood of the sinners" and pledges allegiance to the Christian flag. Teachers show up at the kids homes unanounced to see what kind of TV and music the parents are into. Dancing is not allowed, etc. My sister plans on raising him Catholic (he is baptised) but she liked this school. She will be transferring him out next year.
Bottom line- when you are scared into believing in God, something is wrong!
|