Jennifer R.

I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction with Avemarisingles, a service that, in my opinion, employs deceptive practices. Upon joining, I discovered that the site restricts content access to members only, a detail not transparently communicated beforehand. This realization was both disappointing and misleading.

Further, the user profiles, many of which seem to be outdated or inactive, remain on the site, creating a false impression of a vibrant community. This lack of maintenance and transparency is concerning.

Another issue is the overwhelming presence of profiles from individuals based in other countries, often communicating in languages other than English. This not only hampers effective communication but also deviates from the expected service scope.

Most alarmingly, my investigation, prompted by a dispute raised with my credit card company, suggests that the site may be operating as a pseudo escort service. This discovery is deeply troubling and raises serious questions about the site's legality and ethics.

Given these issues, I strongly advise against using Ave maria. The site's new owners appear to engage in questionable practices, and in my view, the service has never been reputable.

As an alternative, I recommend Catholic Match. It is transparent, user-friendly, and boasts numerous success stories that are regularly updated, including my own—I met my husband on Catholic Match. This site demonstrates the integrity and honesty that users deserve.

I'm writing this on behalf of a good friend, a disillusioned Catholic gentlemen, who's had a rough time with certain dating sites. He was searching for a feminine, domestic partner and thought stepping away from mainstream platforms might help. But what he found was disappointing, to say the least.

The blunt truth? This alternative site is riddled with problems. He encountered profiles that were barely filled out, lacking in substance, and often with very few photos. It seemed like many women on these platforms weren't serious or possibly even real – a lot of the profiles came across as fake or managed by scammers.

The interaction was another letdown. Most profiles were unresponsive, and those who did reply couldn't hold a decent conversation. It was either one-word answers or nothing that could lead to a meaningful connection. It's like throwing money into a black hole.

Adding to the frustration, much of the site's content, including articles and advice, hasn't been updated since 2012. This outdated information does little to help navigate today's dating landscape, making the site feel even more disconnected from the current dating scene.

And let's talk about international dating – it's a minefield. If you're considering traveling halfway around the world, like to the Philippines, in hopes of finding love, think again. You're likely to face even more risks and disappointments.

My advice? Stick to more reputable sites like Catholic Match. That's where I met my husband, and the experience was worlds apart. They have better vetting, and you're more likely to find genuine, literate profiles and people serious about a relationship. Catholic singles should really rally around platforms like CM and steer clear of those secular, sketchy sites.

My husband and I, both in our 40s, found each other on CM, marking my first and wonderfully successful marriage. Three years in, our relationship is strong and blissful. This platform has also fostered happy unions for several of my acquaintances, spanning a range of ages. It's proof that CM works, especially for those who might not meet their partner through traditional means.

However, success on CM, like any platform, requires a positive outlook. It's easy to discern those using it merely as one of many options, without genuine commitment. Remember, there are sincere, devout individuals here. Stepping away from secular sites might open new, more meaningful doors.

A piece of advice: Don't underestimate the power of first impressions. Physical appearance and well-chosen profile pictures matter, even in religious circles where you'd expect different priorities. It's not about vanity, but about showing respect for yourself and potential partners. This isn't to say that looks are everything, but a neat, well-groomed appearance can speak volumes about your self-respect and seriousness in finding a meaningful connection.

Lastly, be realistic and authentic. Seeking a partner who matches your values and lifestyle is more fruitful than aiming for unattainable ideals. If you're using CM out of desperation, it might be time to reflect and work on any personal issues first. A confident, genuine approach is your best asset in finding a compatible partner.