I am Catholic. That may come as a surprise to some people and be completely obvious to others. I am a liberal female studying acting who goes out on weekends... and I’m Catholic. Yes, I can be both. As my time in college has progressed, I’ve been confined to some stereotypes pertaining to my religion. If I do any of these things, I become that Catholic girl. Here’s to all my fellow Catholics who know what it’s like to be generalized.
1. You Don’t Drink
There are plenty of people who don’t drink and aren’t Catholic, sure. But the fact that you’re Catholic will be used against you. Prepare for taunting at the next party you attend. If someone offers you a beer but slyly takes it back saying, “Oh yeah, you’re Catholic,” just smile and walk away. With your faith comes practiced patience. Just keep sipping your soda.
2. You Do Drink
And suddenly you’re that Catholic girl who is rebelling against her parents. Everyone assumes that means you can’t hold your liquor because you don’t have a lot of experience drinking. In fact, they believe this is your first time tasting alcohol. We drink wine in church for Heaven’s sake! Catholics need to unwind just like anybody else, so don’t drop your jaw if you see one at a bar throwing back shots.
3. You’re Never Mad
I can never have that “I served my nickel, you come and take me” confidence John Mulaney talks about because if I even so much as raise my voice, I’m either ignored or laughed at. I’m not taken seriously when I’m upset about something because I’m seen as always nice and innocent. Which leads me to…
4. You’re A Prude
Not all Catholics wait until marriage. In fact, I know plenty of Catholics who’ve already lost their virginity. Am I waiting? Yes. Is it because I’m Catholic? Not necessarily. It is a part of my religious beliefs, but it also has to do with wanting my first to be with someone I love who loves me right back. That doesn’t mean I haven’t made out with strangers before. We’re still human beings, we’re all different, and we all take this step at our own pace.
5. You Attend Church Every Week Like Some Demonic Cult Member
Now, to be fair, no one’s ever said anything along those lines to me. Although I have taken a friend to mass before and the look of horror and panic on his face confirmed what I had assumed: non-Catholics think we belong to a cult. Sometimes, I admit, our prayers in church - perfectly recited in time with one another - can come across as ritualistic, but we are not a cult, rest assured. No animal slaughter and sacrifices here!
6. You Pray
If you’re seen on your knees next to your bed by your roommate, they may give you the eyebrow. If you make a small little sign of the cross before digging into your lunch, your table may exchange glances. It isn’t commonplace to see people pray in public, but if that’s what you need to do, go ahead and do it. We aren’t trying to be ostentatious and parade around the fact that we’re praying, but some people may think you’re asking to be called out. Put on your thick skin and pay them no mind.
Are you THAT Catholic girl? Comment any stereotypes or generalizations you’ve had to deal with as a Catholic.
