Why some Catholics leave the church

In January 2000, the American bishops released the results of a survey they had commissioned on "why most inactive Catholics have drifted away from the Catholic Church."

Here are the results, with added comments of my own:

1. Did not experience God's presence in their Catholic community.

Why, I wonder? Had they lost faith in the Eucharist? They must have, because millions of active Catholics experience genuine comfort from the Eucharist.

2. Did not experience warm, personal caring in their encounters with other Catholics.

Did they make any effort? A public event like the liturgy is for the worship of God. Granted, parishes should have a gathering place after Mass to encourage interaction and friendship, but it is the responsibility of the individual to make friends.

3. Saw Catholicism as too complex and unrelated to their lives.

In terms of theology, this is understandable. But the Church is a complex structure precisely because it is an international organization. When Jesus said, "I am the vine, you are the branches," He intended that we stay connected.

4. Was hurt by a priest or sister.

That's enough to make anyone walk away from the Church. On the other hand, if a cop does something wrong, should you reject the entire police force?

5. Came into conflict with Church teaching.

In our society, individualism is exalted, but differing opinions can't all be right. The idea that two and two are five is not good math. Faith involves a kind of surrender to the mysteries of faith.

6. Were in a marriage not recognized by the Church.

Some are in good faith about their marriage, believing they are okay with God. I do not question anyone's conscience on this, but such people should know that no one is excommunicated for being in an invalid marriage. The Church is full of such marriages. There's no need to leave the Church because of this.

7. Got too busy and did not take the time to be involved with the Church anymore.

That will be the feeblest excuse possible when standing before God on judgment day. Trying to explain why you neglected your soul will not be easy.

All of us in the Church have a big job to do to help our neighbors. Jesus said, "There will be more rejoicing in heaven over one lost sheep who returns to God than over 99 who never strayed" (Luke 15). We have to do better in reaching out to them.

Every parish needs a welcoming committee to greet newcomers and estranged Catholics. Most have a variety of ministries to help others carry the burdens of life -- like ministries for the grief stricken, the sick, the divorced and separated, for single adults, and youth.

We need to encourage all parishioners to use their talents for the good of all and to create an atmosphere of emotional comfort in their parish.

(12/21/06) [[In-content Ad]]