I've started the RCIA classes at my local Catholic parish. Converting to Catholicism usually doesn't happen over night. Every week I attend class with the Priest - though I say class, it is a journey of faith. The journey culminates with confirmation during the Easter vigil Mass, for those of us who decide to become Catholic.

So far, things are moving along beautifully. I have entered into this process with a great deal of reservation, as someone who could easily have trouble taking the next step. Believe me, I struggle with the questions of faith, and other Catholic conundrums. And yet, of all the things that I imagined (and expected) could push me away, so far the experience has been overwhelmingly positive.

First of all, the local parish is wonderful. The people are kind, open and giving. It is an active parish, and parishioners are involved in the work of the church. Truly, one has the feeling of community and acceptance. This is not the parish that excommunicated John Kerry.

The priest is also wonderful, accepting, and open minded. The wrong priest would have, again, done much to push me away. I have heard priests that I would never feel any real kinship with - you know, of the wrathful and pushy sort. They are, thankfully, a minority. Father reflects the joyful light of God and Life.

And finally, Catholicism requires those considering conversion to have a sponsor. I also knew that my sponsor would be an integral part of this experience, and it was important for me to have a sponsor with a similar experience of faith as my own - faith that exists with intellect. Faith that seeks the truth. I am thrilled that the person I have approached to be my sponsor has readily accepted. Really thrilled. He is a former professor of mine - religious studies.

Things have aligned so well, I almost believe it was meant to happen. In spite of myself. Let us not be too quick to scoff at the idea of destiny, anyway. Even science is affirming it.

You've inspired me to learn how to say the rosary. Thank the big guy for Google, 'cause they didn't cover that in my RCIA class (theology schmeology, I need the basics).

Well, I have to wonder about the purpose of all those years of Catholic school...

Catholic vs. public. Chew on that for awhile. Then call my mom, 'cause what the heck do I know.