St. Mary Wooster invites nonpracticing Catholics to reconnect through six-week program

For those who have drifted away from the active traditions of their Catholic faith, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Wooster will once again offer its program known as Catholics Returning Home. The program is specifically designed for individuals who, for whatever reason, have become separated from their church and want to re-explore their connections to the Catholic faith.

“I was raised in the Catholic church and schools and did the same with my children," said Susan Sonnet, St. Mary parishioner. "As life evolved and many family and worldly distractions occurred over the years, I came to accept the mindset of, ‘Oh, I’ve got this, Lord.’ I fell away from actively living the traditions and blessings offered at St. Mary. But I quietly longed for those comforts. This program welcomed me back, helped me revive my faith and, most especially, guided me to receive again the precious gifts of the sacraments God offers there.”

Another participant, Susan Marlar, reflected on her return to the Catholic church.

“I left 40 years ago," Marlar said. "After many years a friend asked me why I did not come back. It is amazing how a simple thought prompts a person to action. I visited St. Mary Church, and it felt like returning home. I am a more engaged Catholic than I ever was before leaving. Catholics Returning Home helps plant that seed to take action.”

Begun locally in 2014, the church has followed a program model put forth by Sally Mews, author of "Inviting Catholics Home." Mews came to Wooster to help establish a team of church members to lead the effort. This team is extending an invitation to nonpracticing Catholics to join them, no matter how long or for whatever reason they have been away from the church.

“Our team provides a nonjudgmental, confidential, safe place where individuals can explore the challenges they have faced and their concerns associated along the way with their faith journey,” said Mary Zuercher, team coordinator.

The six-week series is designed to inform and answer questions nonpracticing Catholics may have about the faith since they have left. Sessions are as follows:

—Welcome and overview of the series.

—Sharing of faith from previous Catholics Returning Home.

—The church today: living in a Vatican II church.

—A walk through the mass, along with explanations and a look at the Eucharist.

—The Sacrament of Penance: explanation of today’s confession.

—What Catholics believe: The creed.

Sessions will begin Monday, Oct. 13 from 7-8:30 p.m. at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, 527 Beall Ave., Parish Hall, ground level of the church.

For more information call the church at 330-264-8824.