Explaining Catholic beliefs to your children

Well, I guess it would depend on the beliefs you have and the age of the child...And really, your example will be the one set for your children - if you lead by example, children will follow...When they get older, thats when they will start to ask questions, and you can be there to answer. I have to say that I went through 9 years of chatechism and we learned more about the teachings of Christ as opposed to specific "Catholic" beliefs...It wasn't until I was a teenager when I truly could process for myself the differences in certain beliefs I held that opposed the churches beliefs and by that time, my parents were able to have frank conversations with me. Like I said before. I walk by my faith and that is my faith in Jesus Christ. My religion is a part of who I am, but only to the extent that I "let" it be, if you can understand. You see, there are hundreds and hundreds of religions...Who's to say mine is right or wrong? No one knows...only God himself. So for me to think that mine is the ONLY way to live would be pretty self righteous, in my view. That's why for me, I KNOW the church's stand on issues...and I can see why they believe what they do...but really, religions are interpretations of the bible (I know this probably isn't making sense, but it does in my mind...haha) My morals, values and beliefs come from what's inside me...Yes, they were shaped by my religion, but they were also shaped by my family and my own free will. I hope someone can explain better for you!

I've looked at these threads for a while and have had several replies, but hesitated at first (I'm a conservative cradle Catholic 'round here:D). I guess my first thought would be "don't put the cart before the horse". If you're truly with your heart, faith and concious wanting to raise your child(ren) within the Catholic Faith I would start at square one (this would work with your own path towards becoming Catholic if that is your wish at some point). Square one, do the research to find out the faith based reasons for those things you differ in. Even if you don't agree, have the knowledge from all sides. If it's the Faith you want to raise a child in, regardless if you yoursefl choose to become Catholic, you'll want to have that foundation for them. It's hard to talk to anything without truly knowing the answers from all sides. You'll be asked to Baptize your child, you will be asked to essentially say "I do" to key, critical examples of faith. Maybe now find out what they are, what it means and how you will raise your child within those examples. As your child grows he/she will need preparation and guidance towards other sacraments. "Little ones" IMO just need the solid foundation of faith they see by thier parents example, by their churches example, by participating in their faith. Little ones won't understand and shouldn't have to understand how an adult reconciles their issues with faith. As a child grows older, becomes more aware of politics, world issues and how their faith may or may not play a part then be open to thier opinions and share your own. Now that's just my take on it, but overall I think we all have to go into it wanting it for the right and real reasons. Thankfully religion isn't something we're forced to do or that we need to do for ease, family resume, or for fitting into a particular box. Life's hard enough to add something into the mix just becuase, yah know!? It's good you're asking yourself and your hub these questions now, it shows care and concern that many just don't take into consideration nowadays. :)

Thanks for both of your replies. It probably would be a good idea to start from "square one." I think being Catholic is just such a natural part of who my husband and his family are that they have a hard time answering all my questions because they just aren't questioning their choice of religion. To them, it's no longer a choice, it's just part of their lives (in a good way-I don't mean that it's forced on them or anything). I think this is so important to me because I want to give that peace of mind to our son and any future children. While nothing I do can guarantee that our son won't want to change religions or not be religious at all when he is older, I want to do everything I can to prevent him from having to be where I am right now as an adult having to essentially start at "square one." Anyway, on my other post from awhile ago, I just replied saying that I think I'm going to pursure going to the classes at a local Catholic church for people interested in joining the Catholic church. I think that would be a good place for me to learn about the religion and have my questions answered. I really appreciate both of your inputs though :).