I don’t like organised ceremonies, but I want to know Jesus.Why should I go to Church?

When we want to get to know someone, we can find out about them by meeting people who already know them. The same is true with Jesus.· One of the best ways to know Jesus is by meeting people who follow him. Going to a church helps you to find them easily. There, you could join a group which explores questions, thoughts and feelings you might have about Jesus and the difference he can make to your life. Such groups also pray together in different ways.

‍

Whilst it is great to pray alone, there is also a blessing in praying with others. It helps us learn from others on the journey of faith, and to meet Jesus through them. For Christians, prayer is always a two-way communication, but sometimes it is easier to sense what God is saying when praying with others. More formalised types of prayers are called liturgies. The most well-known of which is Mass.

‍

When Catholics come to a liturgy (usually Mass) we come both to meet Jesus as an individual and to experience being part of Jesus’ family on earth and to pray with those in heaven. This help us come out of our own bubble, so that we can grow and be supported. Liturgies in the Catholic Church have to follow a set script so that we can be confident of what will take place – the priest can’t just make it up as he wishes. This is because it is through liturgy that we receive sacraments (specific blessings from God which are given to us through the Church).

‍

A liturgy doesn’t have to be overly formal, fussy or complicated: that depends on the culture of a parish or the people at that Mass. Mass can be relaxed, simple and quiet, and yet still be Mass! Try out some Masses in different Catholic churches near where you live or work, to see if you find one that suits your tastes.