I've been thinking about it quite a bit and really, to truly live as Catholics, I'm beginning to believe we're going to have to undo all the assimilation that was done about 40 years ago. It has NOT served us well. People honestly believe that Catholicism is just another denomination. It's unbelievable.
I live in an area with A LOT of Orthodox Jewish congregations and people. Their commitment to faith in the way they live should (and is to some of us) be an inspiration of how to live in this country and still be loyal to the faith. I'm not advocating walking to church when it's more than a mile and all uphill, but we should not be afraid to cut ourselves off from pop culture. You wouldn't believe the looks I get when I say that I don't watch American Idol to a number of Catholics in the office where I am working.
All the blending in went to people's heads. Really, most people I know are more interested in what the people around them think of what they do than what God does. Some of the snide things you hear about large families is NOT coming from any sort of Christian attitude, that's for sure.
I don't watch the reality shows either and people think I'm nutz - but I'm 45 and could care less what people think - which is one of the only good things about getting older!
We can't hide. We can't live in conclaves and observe the faith.
Last week our priest's sermon was on the media, journalism, politics and the persecution of the Church which he believes will get worse. His exhortation was to be strong, be faithful, and be light in the world. He told us to go out into the community, but go as Christians observing the Law completely and imitating Christ in our relationships with others.
He's right. Being exemplary and being in Christ is the only way to influence the World.
Excellent post Desdemona.