Empty pews: what is the real reason?
Of course some of his criticisms are justified yes, some priests are long-winded and dogmatic, seating is never plush, some churches could be better heated, etc.
But, in my opinion, the great majority of priests present the story of life and eternity in a meaningful way, thus cultivating a healthy respect for God and neighbour and a concern for the downtrodden while giving much-needed hope and encouragement as we trundle along life's sometimes difficult paths.
Could it be that non-attendance at Mass has more to do with a lack of belief in the need for regular attendance and that the Catholic Church is expecting too much in this regard?
Could it be that there is a lack of appreciation of the sacred happenings at Mass?
Might it be the easier option to explain away non-attendance by referring to the awful abuses carried out over the years by a minority of wayward priests and the refusal/inability of an authoritarian church to deal firmly and honestly with the offenders?
These days proof is demanded in every situation... that you possess a TV licence or a driving licence, or that you are old enough to buy alcohol, etc.
The proof of your beliefs as a Catholic may and I stress may be in attending Mass.
So many things in life can be made irrelevant, but the return to Mass of many young adults after marriage, and the arrival of a new generation, is a reassuring sign of our need for community worship and the strength and comfort to be found therein.
Was my generation reared on too many rules? Were we a servile lot? Possibly but our parents, teachers and priests saw value in rules which we did not appreciate.
When fairly interpreted, rules embodied love and concern for our welfare. Young people today think for themselves. Wonderful. But it would be wonderful to see even more of them at Mass and giving of their energy to the congregation and community.
They are missed.
Barra Ó Caoimh,
23, Aibhinne na Téile,
An Charraig Dhubh,
Corcaigh.
