By Michael Howard
IT IS often assumed that the youthful desire for God, particularly the Christian God, is diminishing.
Although it may be true that it has diminished in a comparative sense, whether it is still diminishing I’m not so sure.
Further, among this consideration of the youthful desire for God, is a general assumption that it is the modern, progressive and down to earth churches they seek.
That, the holiness of Catholicism inspires little in the hearts of the young.
This, I’ll admit, was once an arguable observation.
It seemed, in the midst of a growing atheist movement, increasing popularity in globalisation and an overall cultural shift towards Americanism, the early 2000s spelt doom for the life of Catholicism within the youth.
This was evidenced most clearly by the Church herself, whose tone towards the young shifted to fit the times, moulding to the likes of non-denominationalism, with less of a holy liturgy and more a soft-rock concert, focused on praising worship to predictable guitar riffs.
This is not to say the youth movements of the 2000s and 2010s, that leaned towards a modern approach, are not reverent or truthful to the Gospel.
Rather, this movement towards modernity’s calling was a response to society’s demands for a newer, more progressive approach to God.
Yet, we have found once again, the changing of the times does not always call for a changing of the Church.
In fact, the times have changed to be so radically anti-Christian, that younger members of the faith are calling for something much different than they were 10-15 years ago, many are now seeking tradition.
Now they ask for reverence, hymns and the Eucharist.
The present culture of, aimlessness, nihilism and hedonism has inspired so many young people to return to a state of seeking holiness.
I have friends who are new to the faith and some who are returning.
The common thread of their desire is for the structure and truth of the Catholic Church, not “bumper sticker” theology.
Although the hip and youthful approach of the past has its place, it can fail to nourish us with what we truly desire.
The ultimate holiness of Mass and the Eucharist better provides us with what we desire as young people looking for direction.
Any non-denominational hall can produce rock music and progressive interpretation of scripture.
Yet only the Catholic Church can provide that which we call for.
For most of us, the changing of the times has never been more felt than in recent years.
So, let us use this knowledge to inform us on how we shall direct those new to the faith or those returning, particularly the young.
Our strengths are many, including our uniqueness, which is especially emphasised in our dull and dreary age.
We want an assurance in faith that would have us lay down our life for the Lord who did so for us.
Perhaps it is time the young of the Church are directed not by the times, but by the eternal.
Michael Howard is studying law at the Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane. As a member of St Gerard Majella’s Church, West Chermside, he has developed a passion for Catholic thought.
