LATELY I have become more aware of attempts to modernise the Catholic Church.
In the media prominent liberal Catholics have been outspoken about their views on reforming the Church in line with secular views on marriage, homosexuality and gender equality including female priests.
I am concerned about this trend as I think it undermines Catholic values and tradition.
Also I agree with those who say that the more the Catholic Church looks like any other Church, the more irrelevant it becomes.
In the Catholic Church we venerate Mary the mother of God.
Her presence is both seen and felt in our churches.
She is the “archetypal” mother to all of us.
Her modesty is inspirational.
She knew who she served.
Church is a holy place. The sacraments and ceremonies should happen in an atmosphere of reverence – after all we are there to enter into the sacred mystery of God’s presence.
For a positive renewal of the Church maybe we could see a revival of the contemplative dimensions of Catholic tradition and the sublime Gregorian chant.
MARIA GUNDERSEN OSB Cam.
Valla Beach, NSW
