u/FoxAcceptable4380

Hi reader, I am new to reddit. I originally came here for Warhammer stuff (Blood for the Blood God, etc. etc.) but I just realized the many other communities here that are here, and I figured I would air out some of my thoughts. I am almost 20 and American, and I was raised Southern Baptist. I have been looking into Catholicism for over a year now, and I am all but a Catholic. I believe in all of the doctrine, I trust the Church, I pray to the saints and to our mother, all of that. However, I am only a Catholic in belief, and I am not confirmed. This is because I am terrified of what others will think. This does not come out of a place of embarrassment or pride over my own image, but the vast majority of the people in my life are extremely devout Southern Baptists. I have heard them put down the Church and joke about Catholics, and I am so afraid of what might happen to me in their eyes. Also, due to the secrecy of my faith, I do not partake in liturgy or the sacraments, and it pains me in a way greater than I can express here. I know that what others think should not be my main priority, and that this is more of a "rip the band-aid off" sort of situation. It is just that one of the only things stronger than my desire to become confirmed and partake in the sacraments, and truly follow our Lord to the greatest of my ability, is my fear of the loss of my loved ones. If you are a convert who has been through this, or just anyone in general, and you might have something to say, please let me know about any advice you may have. And if not, please just pray for me. Have a blessed day and may the Lord be with you always.