Her devout family can't accept she's agnostic

DEAR ABBY: I'm 16 and come from a devout Roman Catholic family. My parents have taken my brother and me to church every Sunday without fail my entire life. We pray before meals, before school, at bedtime and at other times every day. My room is filled with religious objects.

My problem is, I have never felt very religious. Since I was 10 I have challenged the teachings of the church and, as I mature into adulthood, I'm beginning to identify as agnostic. When I told my parents, at first they were angry and disappointed. Then they told me I was "just going through a phase." I know this is more than a phase. It's a personal belief of mine that they have been trying to bury my entire life.

The stress of constantly having to lie to my parents about my faith is tearing me apart. How can I convince them that this isn't a phase, and that I'm not the Catholic girl they want me to be?

- Agnostic in Stockton, Calif.

DEAR AGNOSTIC: Your parents should not have minimized your feelings by saying that they are only a phase because it was dismissive. That said, you must not allow their devout faith - and your lack of it - to become a contest of wills or a basis for argument.

This is an important time in your life with your parents as you enter adulthood. Thank them for the great foundation they have given you. Tell them you hope they will continue to love you as you explore what your beliefs are on this spiritual journey - because it is a journey. The opposite of faith is not doubt; it is certainty.

DEAR ABBY: I'm getting married next year. I am very excited, but I am not at all excited to go dress shopping. What should I do? - No-Frills Girl in Dayton, Ohio

DEAR NO-FRILLS GIRL: No law says that you must go dress shopping for your wedding if you don't want to. Tailor your wedding to your own tastes, and make it simple and casual. It's your day, so do what feels right for you.