Catholic Singles
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With more than a billion Catholics in the world, it shouldn't be hard to meet Catholic singles. Yet, for many, meeting Mr. or Ms. Right still isn't easy. What can Catholic singles do to increase their chances of making the perfect match?
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The Challenges of Catholic Dating
Like many religions, Catholicism has many different incarnations. Many Catholics are deeply committed to God and to their religion, attending church regularly, and following the church rules faithfully. Others value Catholicism, but view their religious obligations less strictly, making their own choices about issues such as contraception or homosexuality. Additionally, some are uncomfortable with religious observance, but still want to date others of the same background. So, it's not just a matter of meeting Catholic singles; the challenge is to find someone with compatible beliefs.
Another issue for Catholic daters is family approval. Although it's not true in all Catholic families, in many, it's important for the children to marry other Catholics. Bringing home someone from a different religion can potentially upset parents, grandparents, and siblings.
Finding Catholic Singles
The first step, if you're hoping to meet Catholic singles, is to let family and friends know that you're looking. Make sure they know that religion is important to you. It may be awkward to ask a potential date about beliefs, because some people are offended at being turned down for the "wrong" religion. In turn, if friends arrange a "fix-up" they will determine ahead of time without any hurt feelings.
To start, if you don't already belong to a church, consider joining one. Look for a church that offers social activities, including events for people your own age. In addition to singles events, churches often have volunteer opportunities and other chances to meet fellow members. Don't shun the chance to get to know older members and married couples. You never know when someone will have a friend or relative who might be perfect for you.
Whether or not you're comfortable at church, there are other Catholic organizations where singles might meet. Is there a specific cause you feel strongly about and would like to get involved in? There are Catholic groups committed to helping the poor, providing medical care, studying and teaching the bible, and more. Volunteers already have interests in common, so it's a good way to meet new friends and expand your network. Again, even if you don't meet your match right away, new friends will help you expand your horizons.
Online Dating
One advantage to online dating services is that members specify their religion right up front. Any of the big dating sites, like Match.com, eHarmony.com, or OKCupid.com, include religion in members' profiles. You can also limit your search to only Catholic singles.
For those who want a more specific Catholic experience, there are sites devoted solely to Catholic dating. They welcome members for whom the religion is part of their identity and their everyday lives. These sites offer not only personal ads, but a whole range of interactive options and articles for people who are interested in Catholic values. Many offer articles on dating from a religious leaders, message boards where members can share their thoughts on dating and faith, and even site-sponsored trips or activities. Catholic Match has a calendar where churches and other groups can post their own events.
Catholic dating sites include:
Other Christian Sites
Although not designed specifically for Catholics, other Christian dating sites can help connect people of faith. Some of the larger sites are:
- Relationships.com, an active site where Christians can meet.
- Big Church.com, an online community with many sincere ads from religious Christian singles.
Keeping the Faith
Dating can be discouraging. It can be especially frustrating when you limit your options to only Catholic singles. But if your religion is important to you, the wait will be worth it. Many Catholic daters share a strong belief that, if they keep reaching out, God will bring the right person into their lives. Reading testimonials from married couples on Catholic dating sites confirm their strong faith, and their gratefulness to God for placing them in each others' paths.
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