Those considering re-engaging with their Catholic faith, may want to explore the Returning Catholics Program. Even though participation in the Returning Catholics Program is not a prerequisite to returning to Sunday Mass, scores of returning Catholics have found this six-week program beneficial in their faith journey.

Tom Raba was raised Catholic and stopped attending Mass after high school. He always felt compelled to return to the Catholic Church.  

“I was Protestant and attended church occasionally,” said his wife, Gayla Raba. “The sign for the Returning Catholic class was right by the Cathedral which we drive by often,” she said. Tom called and spoke with Bob Wentz and he said, “bring your wife.” They attended the six-week class which they found informative.  

“Bob was awesome and told me if I wanted to pursue the Catholic faith the next step would be RCIA classes. I called the Cathedral and the RCIA classes started the day after the last returning Catholic class,” she said. “I felt God was speaking to me!  I attended six-months of RCIA classes and was confirmed on August 14.” 

Gayla added, “Brett Eckert and Jim Kinyon were the teachers, and both were excellent. We are now attending Mass at the Cathedral. We would recommend the Returning Catholic class to anyone considering returning to church.”

The next six-week Returning Catholics Program will be offered on Monday evenings beginning Oct. 3, at Our Lady of the Black Hills Church, I-90 exit 48, in Piedmont, from 6:30-8 p.m. For more information call 605-939-0579 or visit their website: https://www.olbh.org/returning-catholics