Have you been away from the Catholic Church for years? Or just gotten in the habit of not going to Mass for the last few weeks or months? Have you decided that you want to return, but you’re finding it hard to get motivated or get back in the habit of going? I hope this article will give you some tips and advice to help you find your way back.

I’ll be the first to admit I’ve had periods of inactivity in my life as a Catholic. But, I’ve never doubted or lost my faith. I’ve found that when I miss Mass sometimes it’s easy to fall into the rut of letting things get in the way.

I’m too tired. I don’t feel well. Okay, so I missed today, I’ll go next week. I have too much to do. Next week I’ll get back on track.

There are a multitude of reasons that can prevent us from going to Mass if we let them. We have to determine what is important and make it happen.

What if God said, “Oh, I’m too tired to create any more people,” the day before you were conceived? Or, “I have too much to do. I can’t send my one and only Son to save humanity from their sins. They’ll just have to suffer all the consequences on their own.” Or “I don’t feel like listening to their prayers today.”

God would never do that! He is always here for us. Always. Every second of every minute of every day of every month of every year.

As Catholics, we are lucky in that most parishes not only offer Mass on Sundays, but a Vigil Mass on Saturday evening. This makes finding a Mass time that works with our personal schedules much easier.

Here are a few tips for putting Mass back on your weekly schedule:

• Make it a priority.
  
  
• Decide what Mass you will attend in advance. Plan accordingly.
  
  
• Make it a priority.
  
  
• Don’t let distractions get in the way.
  
  
• Make it a priority.
  
  
• Don’t let Satan get to you. And he will try! Trust me.
  
  
• Make it a priority.

If you’re returning to the Church after a period of time there are ministries out there that can help you with your spiritual transition. Landings-International was founded by a dear priest friend of mine, the late Fr. Jac Cambell, and is a wonderful program. Catholics Come Home is another ministry geared to helping those returning to the Church. See what your parish offers. If your parish doesn’t offer either of these programs, there might be something else in place to help you. Talk to your pastor.

Don’t let Sunday Mass be the only time you spend at Church. Get involved. There are tons of ministries out there that are always in need of new members / volunteers. Find a ministry that speaks to your heart and get involved. You will get as much, and mostly likely even more, out of the experience than you give.

Prayers for the Road Home: Signposts for Reclaiming Your Faith - Compiled by Fr. Jac Campbell -- Buy from Amazon

Peace in Christ,
© Melissa Knoblett-Aman