It is always so encouraging to hear that the true faith is alive and well. 

In the midst of threats to religious liberty and the attacks of the media saying the Church is out of touch with society, seeing as society is doing such a great job at running the world, little moments of encouragement are all the more important. 

I have been greatly blessed to have several of these moments in the last few weeks.  First was the Diocesan Youth Conference on March 11. I was asked to lead a discussion with high school-aged men and women that centered on short clips from popular movies, followed by discussions about what they saw as moments of grace and the Holy Spirit being reflected in the clips. 

I was greatly moved to hear their insights and their willingness to openly share their faith.  We speak a lot these days about how important it is to share our faith as a witness to a growingly secular world.  These young people seemed, to me, to be pros.

Then we had the Catholic Schools Mass in our beautiful cathedral.  Students, teachers and parents from our schools throughout the diocese gathered with our Bishop for a joyful celebration of the Mass.  With amazing music and banners from each of our schools walked proudly into the cathedral to begin Mass, a great celebration unfolded. 

At the conclusion one of the most poignant moments occurred.  Bishop O’Connell invited each school community to stand with him for a photograph.  This was a spontaneous part of the day, but one that proved very meaningful as each group stood with the Bishop, with their shepherd, and he was able to express his personal care and support for them.

Next, was a professional day with Tom Burnford of the Archdiocese of Washington, who came to address our catechetical leaders about the New Evangelization.  A wonderful presentation and spirited discussion reflected the passion that our religious education, adult faith formation and evangelization leaders have for promoting a new commitment to authentic Catholic teaching and preproposing the truth of our faith to people who have drifted away from the Church. 

Mr. Burnford described these people as those for whom the Gospel has lost its tang.  A great reference that related back directly to our Blessed Lord’s reminder that we are the salt of the earth that must not lose its flavor.  As we will celebrate in our Eucharistic Congress in the fall, and as the Year of Faith will proclaim, we all have a share in proclaiming the faith anew to a world that desperately needs to hear its message.

Sometimes we can become discouraged as we hear what seems to be bad news.  It is good for us to be reminded that the faith is alive and well, and being proclaimed in bold ways, especially among our young people.   As we approach the joy of Easter we do well to celebrate the gift of life that is the central message of our faith, and to invite others to share that joy.

Father Freer serves the diocese as vicar for Catholic education.