Revolution of Love.com
A Seeker of Truth:
An Interview with Catholic Convert Andy McNutt
by Bobbi
Interview done in April 2003.
A few months ago I came across the website/blog Musings of a Catholic Convert. The author, twenty-seven year old Andy McNutt, immediately intrigued me with his ongoing conversion story and his ability to speak with intelligence, but in a humorous and down to earth manner. I've since gotten to know Andy better and was pleased that he agreed to do an interview with RoL. After you read the interview, feel free to contact him with any questions. He's a great guy who loves to share his faith! -Bobbi
RoL: Hi Andy. Thanks for spending some time with us. Tell us a little bit about your background. I believe you were a Southern Baptist?
Andy: Hi, and thanks for the interview. My parents, two wonderful godly Christian Protestants, raised my brother and me in a Methodist congregation until I was about 8. Then we joined a Southern Baptist congregation. I began my walk with Christ as a Baptist as a 10-year-old. I still remember that night. At 17, I committed myself to full-time Christian service, and at the time I believed that service to be pastoral ministry. Through college and seminary, however, God revealed to me that my ministry lay in education, formation, and apologetics. My passions for these three disciplines were the doorway used by the Holy Spirit to draw me to the Catholic Church.
RoL: What first attracted you or impelled you to look into the Catholic faith?
Andy: My studies fueled my own curiosity. I had several friends and professors who pressed me to defend my answers in class and in the dormitory. I couldn't stand the thought of being wrong, so I started reading Scripture, Greek, History, Theology, Biography, Philosophy, Ethics, Logic, and more. The more I learned, the more I wanted to learn and to share what I had internalized myself. It was the biggest rush to help someone understand and search for truth.
My first taste of the Church was attending Mass in order to complete an assignment for my American Church History class. I went, sat in the back, and took notes, waiting to jot down all the unbiblical practices of Catholics (not for the assignment, but for myself so I could better witness to them). Much to my surprise, I found the liturgy to be extremely biblical. Perhaps some of my misconceptions and stereotypes fell that day, but I think at that time God was merely fertilizing the ground of my heart and mind for a later date.
RoL: How did your wife feel about your conversion? Your extended family?
Andy: My wife has always been a truth seeker, and she has always been willing to trust me as the spiritual leader of our family. We decided to come into the Church as a family, and this past Christmas God brought us into full fellowship with His Church.
My parents are still reeling I think. But they know me well enough to understand that every decision I make is bathed in prayer and voluminous study. They are truth seekers themselves who, though most likely uncomfortable with their "unknowns" concerning Catholicism, know that we are following the path on which God has placed us.
RoL: You made an interesting point in one your online posts. You wrote that when your Protestant friends learn that you're now a Catholic the first question they ask is "What turned you against the Baptist Church?" You stated that first of all, there is no such thing as THE Baptist Church and secondly, that you haven't been turned against Christian Protestants. Could you explain what you meant?
Andy: Sure. There is no such thing as THE Baptist Church. They are autonomous bodies/congregations of mostly like-minded people. The only time Baptists speak in one voice is when they share their resources to fund mission work. There is no one body, group, or person who speaks for God. Scripture is left to the interpretation of the individual. And although there are several groups of persons who share similar interpretations, there is no real consensus. That is what makes beliefs and practices of Congregationalists like Baptists so hard to classify.
As frustrated as I was with democratic and autonomous congregational rule, and as irritated as I was with the "expertise" and disagreement of those whom I knew had little formal education (let alone sound theological and exegetical training), these were not the reasons I left for Rome. That is why I can say I haven't been turned against Protestants. I believe there are many Protestants who have very good relationships with Jesus Christ and whom I shall see in heaven. They are living up to the light they have right now. I also know people who have spat in the face of truth after being exposed to its fullness.
My goal is not to turn people into Catholics. My job is to encourage people to be seekers of truth. When they seek for God with all their heart, He will let them find Him. They just have to learn to be willing to let go of false beliefs and assumptions in light of His truth.
RoL: How important is it that an apologist find a balance between defending Truth and being charitable and humble? How do you deal with situation when you are "in debate"?
Andy: Balance is so crucial. It cannot be avoided. Some people avoid confrontation all the time and call it charity. I call it being ashamed of Christ. Others see no problem with winning the argument at all costs, but I think that does more to lose the battle for the "opponent's" soul.
I think Jesus and the Proverbs give us a good strategy to follow. Jesus was always rebuking the proud and haughty, while giving grace and mercy to the humble and meek. The Proverbs explain that some persons are not worth the time it takes to argue, because their minds are made before an argument begins. I'm not big on debate. I would personally rather dialogue over a period of time to allow the one of differing belief to digest what has been said AND study for himself. Look how long Jesus patiently worked on His disciples, and think of your own journey of faith. More of us converted like Abraham or Moses than like Paul or the Philippian guard.
Sometimes debate cannot be avoided, and when it comes we should be prepared and willing to defend truth in love. Stick with the main point and do not let yourself be drawn to side topics or ad hominem attacks. When you don't know the answer, be honest about it and promise to get back with them. The most important thing is to represent Christ, not the dictionary. Your testimony is the most powerful apologetic tool you possess. People can argue everything under the sun except what Christ has done in your life.
RoL: How has the transition from Baptist pastor to Catholic layman been? Were there any particular avenues or people that made it a little easier?
Andy: I'm still in that transition. I was afraid that people would be intimidated by my background or that I would not be able to find a place to serve. Neither is the case. I'm learning that there are as many ministry opportunities for laypersons as there are ideas for service. I have a great priest who is helping me to find areas to serve my parish. I've also met friends online who have helped my developing teaching and writing ministry to get off the ground. God has definitely prepared the road ahead of me. I'm just excited to follow Him wherever He decides to take me.
RoL: Has your spiritual or prayer life changed since your conversion? If so, how?
Andy: Absolutely! I feel like I've been supercharged spiritually. Everything I've read in Scripture and History are right here in the Catholic Church. They believe now just as the early Church did 2000 years ago. It is such a joy to go to Mass each week and worship Christ in His fullness. What a blessing to walk into the sanctuary and see people praying and preparing their heart, mind, and spirit to worship Jesus Christ. And to think that my worship and prayer is joined by millions of believers on earth who are studying and praying right along with me (not to mention the worship going on among the saints in Heaven!). It's not just Jesus and me anymore. Since coming into the Church I also have a brand new outlook on the ministry of intercessory prayer. It will literally change your life!
RoL: Of all the treasures of the Catholic faith, which do you hold most dear?
Andy: You've asked the toughest question of all. If I had to pick just one I think I would say the communion of saints. Prayer has always been such a vital part of my Christian life and it is even more important to me now.
RoL: Did you start your blog (online web journal) Musings of A Catholic Convert as a means to evangelize others or to explain your conversion to your Baptist friends?
Andy: Both. I created the site to preserve my conversion story. I wanted to remember the details in case somebody asked how I handled a particular situation. I've always wanted to write a book and this was the most readily available tool I had available. I'd still love to write books, but God hasn't opened that door yet.
The blog has been a blend of ministry so far. Through it I've met some awesome Christians, some thoughtful seekers, and some great ministries. I've read emails and comments from people who have been encouraged and/or challenged by my devotions and conversion story. It's when I get feedback that I get most excited. I feel that if I can help somebody get closer to Jesus then I've accomplished a great deal. It's exciting yet humbling to think that God is allowing me to play a role in someone else's spiritual journey.
I'd love to be a listening ear or encouraging friend to those seeking truth, especially gen-x & postmodern types like myself. I'd also enjoy very much to encourage cradle Catholics to grow deeper in their own walk with the Lord. It's so awesome to be a part of their lives, even as far away as Australia. As long as people visit my site I'll continue this portion of my ministry. If God chooses another avenue. . . .well, we'll see.
RoL: Are you working on any future projects?
Andy: I've had three book ideas for about two years now. One is a philosophical approach to conversion and evangelization. The other two are Bible study/devotional writings. I haven't really done as much with them as I'd like. Trying to get a book published seems pretty intimidating to me for some reason. Maybe in the back of my mind I'm waiting for somebody to call me out of the blue and offer to publish me.
RoL: What would you say to someone reading this who feels drawn towards the Catholic Church or who is considering converting?
Andy: Study for yourself! Don't take anyone else's word for it. I truly believe that God converts a heart and mind, not an apologist or a book. Truth must be sought earnestly and internalized for it to become real. And when you have discovered truth yourself, you cherish it all the more. Don't give up when things get uncomfortable. Keep praying and studying, especially source documents like the Sacred Scriptures. If you want to stay incognito, then at least consider emailing me so I can pray for you, answer your questions, or just listen. You can use a false name. I existed for two years as A_Southerner on Catholic chat boards. Keep this thought in mind: If you are seeking God with all your heart, He will let you find Him.
RoL: Any last comments you'd like to make?
Andy: Yes. I have two. First of all, I have the greatest wife any man could ever ask from God and my children are our greatest joys. Second, thank you for granting me this interview. I appreciate this ministry so very much. Call on me anytime.
RoL: Thanks so much, Andy! We pray that your testimony and witness bring many souls to Christ and his Church! May God bless your ministry as well as you and your family.
Andy McNutt resides in Collierville, Tennessee with his wife Kimberly and their two daughters Rebecca and Rachel. If you would like to book a speaking engagement or you simply have a question or comment, contact Andy at amcnutt76@yahoo.com. Also be sure to visit his website Musings of a Catholic Convert at http://shinwa4u.blogspot.com.