I was reminded of this recently when reading Memories of a Catholic Girlhood, the 1957 book by the late American writerMary McCarthy... [ Naoise Dolan on Mary McCarthy’s Memories of a Catholic GirlhoodOpens in new window ].
I should say at once that as an agnostic lapsed Catholic, who tries very hard to believe in God but finds it extremely difficult, I am in absolutely no position to preach to anyone about the consolation of prayer or the importance of going to church.
Question... She comes from a very strong Christian tradition, and she believes fully in it, while I come from a long line of lapsed Catholics and am an atheist ... My family are more flexible and would be happy with whatever we decide ... Answer ... .