www.byzcath.org Forums Faith & Christian Life Prayer Unholy Baptism

Richard,
You stated earlier that you were in the military at one point in your life. Are you considered a veteran? Perhaps you can visit the VAMC in West Palm Beach or a hospital/clinic in your area. I think before you begin any new undertaking you need a complete physical examination if you haven't had one recently. None of us are getting any younger. We need to keep our temples in top shape, as Christ commands us.
Once you are assured you are physically fine you can speak with the social worker to help you with finances and housing. Take the step. Though it may be intimidating, you know they can help your immediate need.

God be with you.
Sam

POSITIVE UPDATE: I got in touch with county social services and have a place to live for 30 days.

I really need to break this 24 year run of not being able to have a job since I got out of the military at age 18. I had very good jobs from age 12 to age 17. I haven't had any income improvement since turning 18.

Richard... you mentioned that you would like to be confimed (Confirmation is what Catholic's call it and Chrismation is the Easter term). Have you taken any steps towards that? While some here may differ from my own opinion ... it makes no diffrence which of the catholic churches you become associated with. But you will need to takes some steps. There is a bit of a learning process for membership. You must be taught (and understand and accept) some of our basic beliefs.

Be sure to contact a priest and ask how to start the process. Each church also has some types of social services. Ask about that also.

We continue to pray for you. Many of us are praying for you.

-ray

I have done the study for confirmation. When a priest gives me a book about basic beliefs to read/study. I read it as easily as if reading cartoons with pictures. I could be quized at any time and any priest would agree that I understand things well. I have never been able to stay at any parish long enough to get a priest to talk to me though.
The parish in Harrisburg had problems because the Byzantane prists there smoked and got lung cancer. He couldn't do much because of the chemo.

so sad about the Priest with cancer, my stepfather died in 1978 with lung cancer and cirrosis of the liver.
now to your situation:have you applied for Social Security? I have a suspicion that you may qualify. due to my juvenile onset RA, and recurring epileptic seizures, it was a breeze on the first try. that is not to say that it will be easy. as far as being homeless is concerned, nine months ago, I became homeless, I ran out of unemployment benefits, and ran out of cash. I wound up sleeping on someone's sofa for two and a half months, and then moved to a place operated by a Protestant church I have an association with that they use as a parish life center, and as a place for Interfaith Hospitality (they put up homeless families for a week or two)for six weeks. I now get a SSDI check and have an efficiency apartment owned by the City of Chattanooga. I am more lucky than others who went through what I went through, d-ed lucky.I am not saying that it will be a breeze for you, but I want to give a word of empathy and encouragement. good luck and God bless.
Much Love,
Jonn

No I don't have any problems that would qualify me for disability. I have the health of someone in thier 20s at age 42. I have a high IQ. I don't have any mental or emotional problems. I've just averaged what I earned before I turned 18 since leaving the military at age 18. I was in military intelligence. My doing anything different is a bad choice for both me and my country.
I have sent some letters and I'm expecting reply.
God seems to be punishing my country since a leader who while is anti-abortion, his people make every other spiritual mistake possible. This can be changed.

Dear Richard,

God created you for a purpose; pray much and eventually you will understand. People will lead you and things will happen which will reveal your purpose. Sometimes those who have few materials goods have the best gifts to offer; for instance by lending a compassionate ear to the depressed; or helping a disabled person with an errand. Try serving others and you will be rewarded a hundredfold.

You do not need baptised again, once is all that is needed.

Do not put you faith in numerology; it is like astrology. Your life is in your control, not controlled by numbers or stars. Trust God; your faith will be your comfort. Maintain the dignity that you deserve as a unique creation of God.

Remember to call upon your gurdian angel and you patron saint for guidance.

May our Heavenly Mother look after you.