I'm just sick over this...

[RUDisney]

I just want to say that I read the thread and the only "thing" that "worries me" is the talk about "gong to church, going to confession, getting it all "SIGNED"
I agree that Church may be an eye opening experience for your son, A wonderful way to experience religion, but "forcing" it may backfire and actually turn him away as though Church was some sort of punishment, which is clearly NOT the message you're all going for.

The confession was my DS's idea. As far as I'm concerned, if he chooses to go again, it'll be up to him and he won't have to get anything signed. I believe you can confess to God through prayer and you don't have to tell the priest. I only go to the priest when I have something that I need to discuss with him.

As for getting a paper signed by the priest when we go to church, DS said that was easy since we go each week anyway. The priests all know his uncle and understand when he explains to them that it is for him. His uncle told him that when he's given him 25 consecutive signed Mass papers, DS will get a raise. It's really not as ominous as it sounds. DS is doing this very willingly, without any bitterness.

None of this was ever presented as church being punishment. It was presented more as a way to atone for his transgressions.

 

[kellyg403]

As a parent going through a rough time with a teen, many hugs to you as you get this sorted out. I understand all to well the feelings of disappointment. The good news is that now you are aware of it, you can help him "fix" it.

I am glad that it looks like you are on the other side. The hardest part in all of our struggles is looking at dsd and knowing that I can't trust her too much. I want to, but for her own good I can't just yet, no matter how upset she is with me over it. She has to earn the big one back...trust doesn't come easy.

Good luck to you and your ds and your family.

Kelly