There are two groups of young Catholics: those who want the Church to return to a previous era, and those who think the Church should follow current social trends.
That is the conclusion of a new report from the Bishops of England and Wales, following a survey of young people which received 3,000 responses, most from Catholics.
Describing the two main groups, the report said the first was “a small but vocal group who want to draw the Church back into an era which they have been told was far better than it is today”. The other, larger group “adhere to the predominant narratives in society, wanting the Church to follow suit”.
The survey was carried out in advance of next October’s synod of bishops, whose theme is “Youth, Faith and Vocational Discernment”. Bishops’ conferences around the world are surveying young people.
The report said that big events such as World Youth Day and Flame had been appreciated by many young Catholics, but “there is a gap of quantum proportions between these experiences and the pastoral practice, or lack of it, experienced in many parishes.”
In particular, the work of Youth Ministers is obstructed by a lack of resources.
Many young people, the report said, are concerned about the “impact of social media”, an area where the Church can offer “stability and wisdom”.
The report also said that not enough Catholics take seriously the obligation to help the poor: it is seen, instead, as the preserve of those who join “justice and peace” groups.
The Vatican has signalled that the synod will explore such themes as “identity”, “otherness”, work and technology.
The synod on the family, which took place in 2014 and 2015, was marked by sometimes acrimonious debates over the Church’s teaching on divorce and the sacraments.
Cardinal congratulates Prince
Cardinal Vincent Nichols has congratulated Prince Harry and the American actress Meghan Markle on their engagement.
The cardinal tweeted: “We pray for their happiness as they prepare to make their lifelong commitment to marriage.” The wedding is expected to take place in the spring. Clarence House said the pair became engaged earlier this month and had informed the Queen and other close family members.
Areas of Catholic Herald business are still recovering post-pandemic.
However, we are reaching out to the Catholic community and readership, that has been so loyal to the Catholic Herald. Please join us on our 135 year mission by supporting us.
We are raising £250,000 to safeguard the Herald as a world-leading voice in Catholic journalism and teaching.
We have been a bold and influential voice in the church since 1888, standing up for traditional Catholic culture and values. Please consider donating.