This post really just serves as an elaboration on some of the things I said in my first post. It has come to my attention when someone is asked to define what The New Evangelization is, more often than not they might not be able to. I admit that perhaps two years ago, I would have been the same way, but ever since I came to Franciscan University this movement has been both literally and figuratively pounded into my head. I am grateful for this, primarily because I am a result of it. The purpose of The New Evangelization is to re-evangelize. It was never about spreading the Gospel to those who have not heard it, but rather to those who have heard it but have since been de-Christianized. For the sake of explanation, I'll give some statistics to show the gravity of the situation the Church finds herself in today. Out of all people who by name equate themselves as "Catholic", only 30% are actually practicing Catholics. Not that isn't sad enough, the definition of practicing Catholic is a Catholic who attends Mass only once a month. It is far less than 30% who attend Mass on a regular basis let alone every Sunday. This truly is a sad situation, but it can be fixed. We all need to be more effective Christians. In this day and age many Christians think that if they stay in their own little bubble and only worry about there own personal morality they'll be just fine. This is not true. Humans were designed for community, and the Christian Church is the perfect community. In this day and age though, modern technology has sadly damaged our communication skills. With cell phones and instant messaging, people have lost the ability to communicate effectively, but this can also be fixed with a little effort. What modern technology has benefitted us with is the invention of Social Media. Many people say Facebook and Twitter are distractions. That all depends on how you use them. I think that these forms of Social Media can connect us in a way that nothing else in the world can. For example, I can only reach so many people on my own with this blog, but if I share it on Facebook (which I have done as many of you are aware of) my friends will see it, and then their friends will see it and sooner or later this Blog can reach thousands of people (which would be totally awesome by the way). I know I've said a lot regarding this subject, but it is very important that we as Christians use the tools that the world has presented us with for heavenly purposes. This may mean something different for all of us, but we all need to do something to spread the faith to those who have lost their way. John F. Kennedy once said, "It is not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." To close, let me adjust that statement. It is not what The Church can do for you, but what you can do for The Church.
P.S. If anyone would like to add anything to what I have said, or if you have a question, feel free to make a comment. In fact, I strongly desire feedback so I know I'm not talking to myself. Don't be shy to speak your mind.
Hi, Ryan,
ReplyDeleteI recently came upon your blog. I find it very refreshing and inspiring that a 19-year-old feels strongly enough about his religion and its future that he takes the time and effort to "blog" about the subject. You're fortunate to be attending Franciscan University which, obviously, makes you comfortable talking about your Faith. Too many people of all ages feel that religious feelings should be carefully kept secret. You have guts, Ryan.
You say that you're looking for questions. OK, here are two. First, was there any one writing which especially gave impetus to your Conversion? Second, can we do anything about your partisanship for Duke?
Keep on blogging, Ryan. It seems that you have much to say and have found a good outlet for your thoughts and beliefs. Nice job.
Be well,
Tom Henningsen
In answer to your first question Tom, I would have to say the Confessions of St. Augustine is what drove my conversion. When I read it I couldn't help but notice his deep humility and the love he had for the Lord and his works. It was even more moving because he came from a place that I could relate with, complete moral depravity. I find that effective evangelization requires the ability to relate to other people, which is exactly what Augustine did with me. As for your second question, I'm not sure I quite understand what you mean by that. You might want to elaborate on it.
DeleteHey Ryan. I have a question about the impact the Confessions had on you. After you read it, what helped you make the jump from Augustine to the Catholicism? Did you find that the Catholic Church in some way connected you, like Augustine, to the Lord in a deeper way compared to your prior religious upbringing?
ReplyDeleteJerry
The Confessions is what really drew my attention to the writings of the early Christian Church. I was blown away when I read it for the first time about 4 years ago that I really just needed to read more from that time period. It was after that when I came across the Epistles of St. Ignatius of Antioch and of Clement of Rome and also certain apologetic writings of St. Justin Martyr. As I further examined these writings it was clear to me that they were consistent with Modern Catholic Teaching. They also as you said connected with me on a much deeper level with the Lord and his will for me and for all mankind. The writings of the early Church Fathers are filled with a deep humility and a divine wisdom that I have not seen anywhere outside of Scripture itself.
DeleteThanks for the answers, Ryan.
ReplyDeleteI made the Duke comment about Duke because, the first time that I looked at your blog, Duke showed up as one of your "circles." I, mistakenly, I guess, took that to mean that you were a fan. You can probably tell that I'm not.
Are you familiar with the Summa Theologica? That's one of my go-to religious readings -- brilliant stuff.
Oh, Duke just must have shown up because I am a Sports fan, I never specifically added Duke. That was something Google plus did automatically. I actually have not read the Summa Theologica entirely yet but it is on my list of things do within the current school year. The parts I have read I have found to be really good. It is most definitely brilliant stuff.
ReplyDeleteHello, Ryan.
ReplyDeletei fully agree with your idea of social media being used as a means to connect everyone. using this as a means of connection could unite everyone and promote the positive methods the church has to offer.
The statistics you shared are shocking and very sad, but your attitude about the New Evangelization is inspiring. The media is going to play a very powerful role in bringing Catholics back to the church, it's just a matter of whether the church is willing to embrace these new technologies and make it their own.
ReplyDeleteHannah Crites
Well written post, Ryan. :) I find it especially compelling because you are a convert, and , as a cradle Catholic, it’s quite inspiring to see someone so on fire for their faith who recently came into the Church. I think you make an especially good point when you say that we are a result of the new media. It is definitely a main factor in how we have been formed and our views on media.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing Ryan! Its awesome to know that you're a convert, I found that really interesting. I honestly did not know the statistics behind what is considered a practicing Catholic, that blew my mind. I agree with the fact that the new media has a great impact on sharing our faith, and we need to continue growing in it! Nice job!
ReplyDeleteI'm interested, Ryan, in what it was that led you to read Augustine at the age of 15. Most 15-year-olds aren't reading much of anything, much less Augustine and the other early Christian writings.
ReplyDeleteThe Summa is a very good explanation of the basics of Christianity. So much if it remains applicable in today's world -- essence/existence being separate, "rules" of just warfare et al. It'sNot an easy read, but I think that it's worth investing the time and effort.
I actually came across Augustine through one of my High School Bible teachers, ironically a Protestant. He recommended it on a Summer reading list. I was probably closer to 16 when I read it the first time. It feels like it was forever ago. Being Catholic just feels so right that the rest of my life is so distant. I am no where close to the same person I was before converting.
ReplyDeleteAnd as for the Summa, I'll get to it. Right now I'm just trying to make it through City of God, another very good read.
I've never read "City of God." It's pretty much a defense of the Faith against Pagan claims that Christianity was the cause of Rome's decline, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteIt's terrific that you feel so connected to Catholicism. I hope that the feeling continues. It's a great source of strength.
You seem very serious about things. Don't forget to "make a joyful noise unto the Lord."