Lapsed Catholic 2.0

April 21, 2008 | Filed Under Main |

Speaking of his Popeness and his recent American tour–

Last Friday, I did indeed find one of three Catholic Churches in the vicinity and I attended mass.

And it was just as dull and uninspiring as any other Catholic Church. Only this one was crowded! Packed to the walls. There were speakers outside so the overflow could follow along. There was even a nice little souvenir table in the courtyard – selling light-up crystal crosses, little statuettes and I think I could have even picked up a black velvet Jesus.

The only church I’ve been to in years where I could sense God in the rafters was Notre Dame. There - I could feel the weight of faith and a belief in something larger and greater than yourself. I used to know more churches like that (Catholic and others) – where just walking in could be uplifting. Maybe it was the history involved – like Notre Dame or the church in the center of Boston. Or maybe - by being in these places - you knew you had to step up. You had to listen a bit harder. You had to meet the message – rather than the message being pre-chewed and re-packaged for you in the most simplistic language the church can create without losing the story altogether.

I know a number of people who get a great deal by going to church. More power to them. But I think a larger portion go out of a sense of obligation. I think I saw a lot of that Friday, though of course I can’t be certain. But - to me - the church seems far more interested in illuminating a follower’s obligations rather than illuminating their faith. If I lived near Notre Dame, I’d probably be there every weekend. For now – and as always – God and I get along fine… and I have my King James with me.

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4 comments so far
  1. Mom April 22, 2008 5:22 am

    Well King James is not the Catholic version. And it is the faith that’s within you that matters not the building you’re in. But you knew I’d say that anyway. But I’m glad you found the churches. Visit each one and say a prayer.

  2. mburma April 22, 2008 11:31 am

    I know - King James is just the best written and most fun to read. If I go again - and can get a bit further in - I’ll say a prayer.

  3. neece April 23, 2008 10:08 am

    You are my amazingly great son-in-law,Carlino. But I know where your soul really comes from….and she lives in Connecticut….

  4. mburma April 23, 2008 10:35 pm

    ‘Tis true.