WE have almost completed the Mass count which is conducted in May every year. Fewer people are attending our Church than last year. I do not know what to think about this fact. But I cannot ignore it. As a priest it is discouraging but, as a community, we must address issues. I can ask myself what it is that I am doing or not doing? But I need people to tell me.
I see that many young people stop coming at a certain age group. But I also see that many families just stop attending church as well. While age and inability is one factor for the elderly, I find it harder to understand why young families simply stop coming.
I appreciate that we live in a busy, even hectic, society and that many pressures are placed on families. I also think we can/should do more for the music in the parish. But the demographic of the parish shows increased numbers of Catholics but a decrease in church engagement. The Parish Pastoral Council will discuss the issue but all parishioners are invited to make comments and suggestions to me personally or by email.