<snip> is what has made the archdiocese of Denver what is arguably the model Evangelical Catholic diocese in the country: a Church brimming with excitement over the adventure of the Gospel, a Church attracting some of the sharpest young Catholics in America to its services, a Church fully engaged in public life while making genuinely public arguments about the first principles of democracy.I am interested in knowing more about this... Can anyone cite some concrete examples of what George is implying?
Excellent.
I’ve maintained that Vatican-II was the right idea, but was poorly implemented. Good to see that some bishops are trying to get it right.
Even better to see that its coming from liberla Philly.
Wonderful post.
Catholicism is tough and sometimes we forget to live it with our joy showing. When young people meet a Catholic who lives the Gospel joyfully they are deeply moved.
I was raised Catholic and knew lots of firm, serious Catholics. It was when I saw the film “Brother Sun, Sister Moon,” about the life of St. Francis and St. Clare, that I first contemplated what it meant to live the Catholic life joyfully. I recommend the film to anyone and challenge them not to be inspired. I saw it when I was 17 and I’ve never forgotten it. It is also beautifully filmed.
Another great resource is the book “Mr. Blue” which is a story about the life of a more modern version of St. Francis. It also challenges us to live the ideal. I read it in my 20’s and was touched by the story of a “fool for Christ.”
Finally, the sheer numbers of young people who flocked to JPII’s appearances showed that young people are searching for a beautiful ideal that is lived fearlessly and joyously.
This is our challenge as Catholics: to live the gospel in happiness without fear in front of the whole world. As St. Francis said, “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”