Dear Holy Family,
Were you there? Were you part of the great turnout for the “Evening of Conversation with Fr. Jerry” last week? More than 50 active and inactive Catholics participated and passionately shared their feelings, experiences, beliefs, questions, and concerns about faith and the Catholic Church. The goal for the evening was to create a welcome atmosphere for those who may have left the Church to comfortably share what may be keeping them from returning. And the evening did not disappoint! Among views and questions shared:
“We desire a personal relationship with Jesus. How can the Church better respond to this?”
“The work of the Church is outside of the church (meaning outside of the building).”
Current issues should be talked about from the pulpit: “we need the tough love!”
“How can divorced people who want a relationship with Jesus be made to feel more welcome?”
Anger lingers over the priest abuse scandal: “Why did the Church allow the abuse to go on for so long?”
The Church can be “judgy”: “You’re not a good Catholic if you have different views.”
“Why does the Church limit Eucharist to Catholics? If it’s the body of Christ, shouldn’t everybody be able to share?”
If you’re intrigued by any of these thoughts, watch for another “Conversation with Fr. Jerry” in the coming months. (The group was enthusiastic about wanting a follow-up!) You may also want to consider dropping in on Fr. Jerry’s Adult Faith Formation classes at 6PM on Wednesdays. I’d encourage you to also share thoughts by posting a comment in this blog.
In the peace of Christ,
Bob
Comments
Bob KingPosted on 3/24/23
Thanks, Steve, for that perspective! Our Catholic faith indeed opens our eyes to certain indisputable truths. I agree that Fr. Jerry articulated some of those truths very well. We're already planning a second "Conversation with Fr. Jerry" -- more to come!
Steven HumbletPosted on 3/24/23
This was indeed an excellent program. Father does a fantastic job of listening and responding with respect. They say waiting for your turn to speak is not listening and Father truely listened then and replied with his vast knowlege of the subjects. If you've wondered from the church for what ever reasons the door is open and "their listening" as Fraiser Crane would say.
I much love how he simplifies things right back to a line in the sand. So to speak. That being certain indisputable truths. Attending these programs strengthens my understanding and gives me greater confidence in my faith.
See you there next time!
steve