A couple of months ago, Brian and I switched to a new church in Concord. It's still a Catholic church, so we didn't switch because of any crisis of faith, but our needs were not being met by our old church (which shall not be named.)
For the past couple of years we have been in "survival" mode. We didn't really have time to be very active in our congregation. It was hard enough for us to make it to Mass on Sunday, and we didn't have any left over energy for anything else. But even in "survival" mode, we didn't feel quite "at home" in our old church.
There was a very strong focus on teenagers and children. The church had TONS of programs for their youth. Children were taken out of Mass during the readings and came back for communion (they got a watered-down version in a separate location.) The music at Mass was almost always accompanied by drums, electric guitars, and sometimes even a little saxophone/trumpet jazz ensemble. The music was upbeat and "hip." Ten years ago, I would have loved it. Everyone goes through that "teenager mentality," and I was no different. But here's the thing...I grew up.
These days, I like the more "traditional" music to be played at Mass. It helps me focus on the Eucharist and my prayers and intentions. It helps me feel calm and present in my worship. Also, our old church seemed to forget about what I will call the "average-aged" people. There were extra programs for the youth, there were even a few extra programs for seniors, but there wasn't much offered for people who fell between these two age extremes. Also, I have a huge problem with removing children from church. I believe that by going to church when you are young, you learn how to behave in church. If a child doesn't understand a reading, maybe their parents could go over it with them before or after Mass. I just felt like these kids I saw traipsing out every Sunday were being denied a very important experience.
Finally, my last complaint is a bit petty. At our old church, it felt like every single homily boiled down to one message: "Give more money to the church." It didn't matter what the gospel was, that was the message of the week. And the message wasn't even "Give what you can, even if you have no money, you could still give time or effort." Nope, it was straight up begging for money every week. The congregation was large and clearly wealthy, and in the bulletin it looked like they were collecting more than they spent, so I don't know what the deal was.
Our new church is wonderful. It still has tons of programs for the youth of the congregation. It has a children's Mass (children do the readings, sing in the choir, etc.) It has a Mass for teens in the evening. But right in the middle of the day, there is a traditional Mass that we attend. There is a Bible study starting in a month that I will attend. When we signed up as new parishioners, Brian and I were presented with dozens of stewardship opportunities. These priests ask the congregation to be involved and active in their faith, not just throw money at stuff. It is just wonderful, and we are so happy we switched churches.
After Mass, we sometimes go to Concord Mills mall and walk around. Sometimes we stop for lunch at Panera (we didn't do either today, btw). I love the new relaxing drive to church through winding back roads instead of hectic city streets. Again, I am so happy with our choice. My cup is truly overflowing.
I guess the point of my post is this...don't forget the adults! Yes, teens are important. Yes, their needs must be met, and no, I don't want them to wander away from the church. But what happens after you are a teen? Churches, remember that adults have needs too.
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