
I'm glad Confession hasn't come to this:
I know I've got some people curious about my "confession", and why I should make it public. But even AA recognises the need to acknowledge the ramifications of our failings and to
make amends if possible. My sin may not be as bad as
this, but still might get me
here or, maybe
the modern equivalent.
This confession may sound "tongue-in-cheek", and may have elements which are such. But the general topic is as serious as it can get. It is more of an examination of conscience.
I'm going to ask my readers not to comment on how wrong my actions are, for you won't say anything I haven't said to myself. I'm not writing this to brag or to be funny, but to get my own thoughts organized and to see what ideas my fellow travelers have to bring me closer to God an His Church.
Enough stalling. Here it goes.
I haven't been to Mass since Easter.
Why is this important? I know that I need to be fed by the Word, and by the Eucharist. I need my brothers and sisters in Christ. I have no problem with the teachings of the Church.
I think my problem is that I don't have a parish that I think of as "home". I used to have a "home" parish 3 years ago, but then the parish staff decided to take over many of the activities done my parishioners. I was involved with RCIA formation for about 10 years, then the pastor hired a "lay formation" educator and he basically put a number of us "out of business". The same thing happened to liturgical ministers, many times resulting in more "performance" services and fewer Liturgies.

As bad as these changes were, at least I was being fed Liturgically. My intellect was being fed as well as the rest of my being. Then I was forced to move (due to employment) and my current local parish is of the Kwik-E-Mart variety. I tried joining the RCIA formation team, but he program had very little in the way of catechetical formation and consisted primarily of "faith sharing" the Sunday readings. Formation of liturgical ministers was of the same caliber. The preaching from the pulpit is of the same level, kind of like eating pure meringue, all sugar and no substance.
I can't blame my problem all on the parish. I suffer from depression, and all I don't have this problem personally alcoholism is prevalent in my family. While I've never been an active person, I also often suffer from a lack of energy. I often spend the weekend in bed and/or watching TV.
So what is my plan of action? First, I need to find a parish where my needs both spiritually and intellectually are met. Second, I need to get to Confession, the Mass, and probably the Anointing of the Sick. Third, find some place where I can participate is spiritual Formation, as this seems to be my Gift from God to the Church.
Finally, let me ask your forgiveness, brothers & sisters. Not only have I been missing you; but you have been missing me from the Body. I think this is the thing I've been missing the most over the weeks I've been "missing in action". God willing, I may soon be worthy of your company again.