I've got a little dilemma that's been bugging me for the past few months, and I haven't been able to talk to any of my friends about it. I've been interested in going to a Catholic mass for a while, just to see what its like. My mother used to be Catholic, but she rarely attended mass and she left the church completely when I was younger. I don't want to make her upset by going, but its something I've been wanting to experience for a few months. Of course, there's another problem.  My mother wouldn't be the only one upset. I stand a chance of making my boyfriend (a Catholic) feel awkward by going.  His church is the only one in town.  I really don't want him to think that I'm doing this to get closer to him. How do I do this without hurting or confusing anyone?  Can I even do this?  What do you think I should do?

-----------------------------------------------Miss Emily's advice-----------------------------------------

This seems like somewhat of an odd situation, because I think you should have every right to experience this without fear of offending anyone. I would present it to your boyfriend like this "I've always been curious how a mass is performed, can I go with you sometime?" or if you're in school, "I'm doing a paper on a religious rite..." It's a little fib, but it could work. I don't know why you fear your mother would disapprove. She may have left the church, but that doesn't mean you can't visit one out of curiosity -- unless you're entertaining the idea of joining the church, and she would object to it. You didn't mention your age, so I don't know how much control you have over your life, but this seems like a small issue to me. If you're an adult, visit one in another town if you fear your boyfriend's reaction.