THE Leader (14/3/04) was headed with the fact of which we are all well aware, that fewer Catholics go to Mass.
And, very rightly, we search for answers.
Jesus invited the hungry, the thirsty, the heavily burdened to come to him because he could meet their needs. Are we to say that there are not any more the thirsty, the hungry, the heavily burdened?
Or do we, the Church, fail to provide, and our disappearing flock is going elsewhere to find answers?
Rather than programs and plans, should we not look deep into our hearts to see if we know and are sure that heaven awaits us with eagerness when we die – that we shall at last meet face to face the One who has died for us, gone ahead to prepare a place for us so that we would indeed be where he is?
We have the most wonderful news that could ever be said, glorious promises that could ever be made to anyone.
Regardless of what happens here, that is what is before us when we say goodbye to this life.
Do I, do you, who read this, truly believe this reality. Do we believe, at gunpoint, in Jesus as Lord and Saviour?
If I do then I will say that it shows in my face and in my life.
Then and only then will our departing flock come back. They will be welcomed, be fed, be renewed, and the lost will find a Saviour.
RON PARKER
Beachmere, Qld
