Q: I’m an adult woman who is considering joining a convent. I don’t really like where the modern world is heading; everything scares me. A case in point is the Therians, people who think they’re mentally dogs and record TikTok videos of themselves walking on all fours, barking and howling. But when I tell people that I think it’s stupid, I come across as intolerant. Recently, I started feeling bad and found my way in prayer. For years, I’ve wanted to change this world, but I didn’t know how. Only recently have I started feeling truly at ease with God and even converted. Would entering a convent be a possibility? — M.T.

Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC:

While the world can seem like a scary place, it’s the place God has put us.

If we can learn to live our faith well amid the scariness and mess, we can become saints with the grace of God.

As for joining a convent, it’s good to remember that convents are not escape hatches for people who want to flee the world.

A call to religious life is a vocation from God. It’s not something we choose, like picking a major in college.

Even if your motives for looking into religious life were more positive, you would likely be told to wait a few years. As a recent convert you need to deepen your knowledge and practice of the faith first.

For now, let’s assume that you are called to live in the world. What should you do?

First, dedicate time to prayer daily. Read a bit of Scripture; it will remind you that the world has always had its share of problems. Try to find a solid, regular confessor to help you. And stay close to the Eucharist.

Second, learn to detox from the world. You mention the Therians. People who identify spiritually or psychologically with animals probably have personal issues to work out.

Suffice it to say that they shouldn’t distract you. Don’t waste time on any of the general nonsense that goes on around you. You only have limited energy, so use your time well.

Aside from the prayer and sacraments, look to get involved in volunteer work at the parish. And aim to cultivate a network of friends who take their faith seriously. We can live the faith more easily within a community of believers.

Try to learn more about the faith. Tune in to Catholic radio and think of getting a copy of the U.S. Catholic Catechism for Adults or the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Follow some of the steps mentioned above and you will feel more secure. You will have a deeper sense of God’s presence and providence.

And recall Jesus’ words in John 16:33 — “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”