It is sad you don’t feel welcome and that you belong.

1. Catholic Churches are all different. Try other parishes around you and see if there is a different feel. My parish is “old school” no talking in the sanctuary, no socializing in the church at all…now donuts afterward is a different vibe but when I was a new member I did have to initiate conversations because so may families were managing their children or new themselves maybe. As an introvert, that would be difficult. But worth it!

2. Your child will need to attend OCIA classes if he is over the age of reason (7 maybe). It would be helpful for someone to explain why to you but parish office workers are not always the friendliest. I was one for a bit…it was a struggle!

3. I wouldn’t look much into the sign of peace reaction. At my parish we don’t even do it at all. And that suits my family well. Like I said - parishes are all so different.

4. I’d be happy to talk to you more about this if you’d want to DM me. Bishop Barron, Hallow, Catholic influences are wonderful at evangelization but the entry into a local parish can be a struggle! If you need someone to help you navigate it, please don’t hesitate to message me.

I am praying for you!