The Church Is All Right

Others, however, see a silver lining here. While the animosity toward the Church has undoubtedly weakened the faith of many, such tepid adherence has unfortunately left them without a deep sense of meaning or purpose in their lives. As a result, they’ve found themselves yearning for truth. “I find that many people are hungry for the truth because they get so much equivocation and deceit,” notes one member of the clergy. “Ambiguity confuses,” adds another. “Clarity of teaching is essential. People follow a challenge, not a question mark.” Moreover, others are encouraged by the robust response to this problem from both clergy and laypeople. For example, the Augustine Institute has launched FORMED, a Catholic app hosting hundreds of podcasts, talks, debates, and other resources defending the faith. Likewise, Word on Fire, a Catholic ministry started by Bishop Robert Barron, has racked up millions of YouTube views, mostly from young people clamoring for wisdom. And EWTN, a Catholic TV, radio, and news platform run by lay members of the faith, has also grown an impressive following. “So,” concludes one priest, “I’d argue that a new evangelization is actually underway, despite all obstacles.”