Welcome Fr. DeMartini, I was brought up Catholic with 12 tears of Catholic Education and more church visits than I care to remember. By the time I was 18, I was so "burnt out" on mass and Catholic teachings that I wanted nothing to do with religion at all. I went to college and grad school and worked my way through both of them. I never fully agreed with some of the "rules" that the Catholic church put on it's parishoners and sorta lost faith in general. Since my diagnoses three years ago with AIDS, and coming close to death several times, I want to try and believe again, not because of the disease and it's potential outcome, but because of the need for something more in my life. I took life and the people around me for granted, hurt others and ruined great relationships because of my self-centeredness and lack of concern for others. I need direction and help to become a better person but am not sure where to start on a spiritual level. I don't know if the Catholic faith will be the place for me or if I may find another denomination more favorable. I just started to see a therapist to help with the psychological stuff, but I want and need to work on the spiritual aspect also. I am lost and afraid of the damage that has been done. What should I do? Thank you, Fr.

Dear "Not Too Sure",

Thanks for your candid note. I can understand the burnout--even as one who has been "an insider" for many years! I want to support your search for the spiritual support you find missing---I believe that there are many aspects of our faith which can provide this support and the best place are to go back and read the Gospels. I think that Jesus responded to human needs that easily translate to modern circumstances such as AIDS. Hear his care and words of support as directed to you. I also would be happy to recommend someone close to you who may be able to offer personal support as you continue your spiritual journey. Just let me know. I will keep you in my prayers. Fr. Rod