Finding Our Enthusiasm

Posted by: L.E.S. on: October 15, 2015

• In: Everyday Life | Faith | Parish Activities
• Comments Off on Finding Our Enthusiasm

As a campaign volunteer and someone interested in politics in general, I’ve noticed some things over the course of the election:

• animated discussions about parties’ policies
• the readiness of volunteers to take on tasks such as door-to-door and phone canvassing
• supporters’ willing participation in open houses and rallies
• the camaderie among volunteers

We could use some of this energy and enthusiasm in the Church. Just think about these questions:

• In parishes that have tried to run information sessions on natural family planning, for example, or a discussion on the Church and families, did just a handful of people show up?
• How readily do people attend or volunteer at parish ministry fairs or agree to serve on committees?
• When a parishioner is unable to serve at Mass, do others step up to help willingly or grudgingly?
• How many parishioners attend parish social events such as coffee hour after Mass, potluck suppers, the parish picnic, or trivia or movie nights?
• How welcoming are we to newcomers and visitors? Do we say hello, make room in the pew, and answer questions about parish activities and service opportunities? Do those in the congregation seem glad to be at Mass or look like they’re going through the motions?

My son and husband at a youth ministry event

I know that families today are busier than ever with work and after-school activities, but what does the future hold for parish churches where volunteers are often in short supply, where youth and adults alike may be warming the pews, where there may be a flurry of activities but not a lot of passion for running or participating in them?

Maybe it’s time to look at our talents individually and as a parish to see where our skills lie and how they can best be used. To consider new ideas for parish activities that appeal to singles and families, youth and seniors. To move out of our comfort zone to attend Mass on a weekday, during the evening, or at another time on Sunday; to sit in a different pew; to really listen to the readings and sing the worship songs, joyfully if not tunefully.

Although it may seem that way sometimes, elections don’t come along every week, but Mass at our parish church does. Isn’t it time we discovered—or rediscovered—our enthusiasm for spending time worshipping and socializing with fellow parishioners?

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Tags: Catholic, Christian, election, enthusiasm, faith, God, religion, social activities, worship