It is common today for people to say they have problems with “organized religion” and “the institutional church,” they say that they are spiritual but not religious, and pick and choose elements that make up their personal "spirituality". It may be in a non-denominational church or maybe confined within the home. It can include everything from music and aromatherapy to meditation and small group gatherings. They create a custom built personal devotional observance as a substitute to the traditional church.
Scandals seem to abound in all churches. Everything from sexual misconduct to the gross misuse of money. From the ordination of homosexuals to the abuse of trust and power. It's not hard to understand why so many distrust the church.
These days there are many other paths a seeker might choose-not only other churches (all of which have their own share of sorrows), but an honest, individual, inquiring search that might or might not end up leaving the searcher open to the truths of the gospel. Such an individualistic course is a great loss where the life of the sacraments and spiritual counsel is concerned; but I can see how someone might end up there. In fact, I know many people in that same place. One woman was offended by a priest over 20 years ago and has never returned to church. Jesus’ own denunciation of the scribes and Pharisees, the representatives of organized religion at the time, can-and should-be understood as a criticism of a similarly complacent and self-satisfied Christianity.
Despite the failings of the institution, we must remain committed to it and influenced by holy men and women who were themselves nourished by a church that has many flaws but also many saints. A rich experience of the church can anchor you, despite the frustrations. The cowardice of men should never be allowed to drive people away from the Church the Christ started.
Yet too many people don't have that experience and knowledge of the church, the depth and tradition. The state of preaching in Catholicism and the level of serious adult education are usually abysmal. If your experience is confined to your parish, your priest, and, marginally, your diocese when you see corruption, and a way of living that contradicts the gospel, it is easy to see why someone might reasonably say, “No thanks; I’ll look elsewhere.” And while it is tempting to blame the people who wander away, it really isn't that simple. The church, and those of us who are supposed to represent it, are responsible.
I have recently seen a change in my narrow field of view. People are beginning to ask honest questions about the Catholic church and it's teaching and discover the complete opposite of what they expected. I can only hope this is the beginning of a positive change and return to the vault of truth that can be be corrupted by any man.
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