Experienced Needs and Spiritual Realities
Last week, we talked about young adult needs and issues... and how we should really look at these trends in our interpretation of the data we receive about young adults' inactivity and disconnection from the faith (CARA, Pew, Gallup).
This week, the three readings give us a sobering look at how young adults respond to the invitation of faith from church communities.
Where is the disconnect? If the Church has the tools to respond to the issues of young adult life (see "Sons & Daughters of the Light") and young adults are indeed struggling with a variety of issues (such as mental health, economic hardship, the information explosion, globalization, independence from family of origin, etc.)... why is there such a disconnect?
From your interpretation of the three authors' this week and your own insight and experience, share your thoughts on the possible reasons for such a huge gap between young adults' needs and the Church's ability to meet and help with those needs.
The vast majority of the Church's collective energy goes toward information rather than formation. This presents a tough challenge for including young adults as full participants in the life of the Church.
ReplyDeleteTeaching doctrine, writing doctrine, clarifying doctrine, enforcing doctrine-- while these may all be worthy and necessary, there is far too little emphasis on discipleship building. Relationships with a parish play a crucial role in the parish being able to serve those who worship together and the greater community. There are not many structures within the parish community that welcome or invite anyone to participate, let alone young adults. Perhaps we ought to create tools steeped in the teaching of the Church but that also facilitate intentional dialogues with young adults and real invitations to participate in more meaningful ways. Among the things I have in mind would be: relational meetings, personal invitations to share in liturgical ministries, and creating gathered opportunities to share.