Renewing the Church 

   “The most disastrous scandal of our time is the separation between the practice of religion within church buildings and the practice of religion outside in society” (Frances Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan, “The Road of Hope: A Gospel from Prison.) 

   Years ago priests were easily recognized wherever they went; they wore their priestly garb telling the world who they were.  Today many are unrecognizable except when celebrating Mass.  The example of their priestly vocation is hidden from society.

   The same is true of the laity.  Many used to proudly wear religious medals or other indications of their faith.  Those identifiers are seldom seen today.  In fact, in society today I sometimes think people are afraid to show their faith in public.

   Why are we so afraid of living our faith outside the walls of our church?  Do we think we will be ostracized or looked down upon for showing our devotion to God?  Are we so apathetic in our faith that most will not even take the time to say grace before the meal in a restaurant?

   It has taken years for Satan to effectively isolate the faithful in society and it will take years for the faithful to change that.  It will mean being proud of our faith whether in church or in public.  Openness and willingness to be seen as Christians in a secular world may not be easy but I believe it is the only way to begin to rebuild the church in society.

   The next time you wear your cross or religious item to church consider leaving it on when you leave and go to the restaurant for breakfast.  If someone asks, be proud to explain why you wear it.  Take the time to stop and respectfully say grace before beginning to eat wherever you may be.  Most of all let your faith shine through in the way you live your life.  It’s the little things that we can all do that will help renew the Church in society. 

Sometimes it seems we are ashamed of You.

We fail to recognize You and our faith in public.

Give us the courage to always live our faith.

Give us the strength to take a stand for God. 

Amen