1. Were you born/raised catholic? Yes, born and raised.

2. How long ago did you leave the catholic church?
Started questioning it 3 years ago, but didn't actually stop going until 1.5 years ago.

3. Why did you leave the catholic church (what made you start questioning your faith)?
I was married in a catholic church in 96. My husband left me for another woman in 2000 and filed for divorce. That is when I started questioning it, I felt shunned because I was divorced even though it was not my decision. I was made to feel like I was less of a catholic because I was divorced. I felt shame. I was a single mom and I could not afford to pay to apply for an annullment. Then when I remarried a couple of years later, I would no longer be able to take communion, etc because I was an adulterer in their eyes. That is when I left for good. Add that to the fact that all of the cover-ups had been exposed and I just couldn't believe the things that went on that was overlooked and covered up. It is so very sad....children's lives were ruined and the church didn't care.

4. Are you criticized by your family for no longer being catholic?
Not really criticized out loud but I know it just kills my mom. I can just tell. I have a brother who no longer goes to church at all and she'd rather me be like that than to go to a church that is not catholic. I was just at a bday party yesterday and my mom and sisters were talking about church and my mom was telling my sisters that they should start saying the rosary with their kids at least once a week. It was all I could do to keep my mouth shut. I love them dearly and don't want to cause any problems so I don't talk about it.

BTW, just last week the new priest (been there for 7 months) at their church was accused of touching a boy in 1983 at a different church and is currently on administrative leave pending an investigation. My mom cried when she found out.