Christians are Driving People Away from Church

[@fij715]

Depression and suicide are also record high. All though I’m Dutch (not american) I converted back to catholicism to escape the everlasting nihilism. If I was the last of ten people in my country to be Catholic I wouldn’t care. My soul is saved and my life is one of happiness while I see the world crumbling around me. It will not affect me because I stand on the rock of God.

[@marcihf217]

I am a cradle American Catholic who didn't practice my Catholic Faith for many years. I was living a very secular, wordly life. My Catholic Faith (the way I was living it was very wordly, very Protestanty). My life was a complete and utter mess. By the grace of God (with help from our Blessed Mother Mary) I came back some years back. The closer I stay close to Our Lord and His Church, the happier and more at peace I am. The more I do what I want, what the world says is good, etc....the more problems arise.

[@fij715]

@@marcihf217 Yes and it is better to have two faithful like you than to have two thousand of people who are there for other reasons than God.

[@gpanthony]

@@fij715 Blessed are you, as a sibling in the Spirit, I pray for much peace and joy in your life!

[@gpanthony]

@@marcihf217 I'm glad that you were called back and I pray for much peace and consolation for you and for steadfastness in the Spirit!

[@marcihf217]

@@fij715 ❤❤❤

[@togaplop]

Father Casey. Thank you for your ministry. Making the church relatable and humble is needed to bring people back, and you do an excellent job.

[@creativecatproductions]

Making Church relatable is exactly how the Church became irrelevant.

[@AnnMcErlean-de4jo]

I love the Parables told by Jesus. They were meant for us too.

[@JoeCurran-s4x]

Well said!

[@jeffhedglen]

I heard once that good preaching should comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. This is a great video and with will comfort and afflict. Praying for you as you make bold stands.

[@clairejagels9598]

That's a good one!

[@cdsung6527]

That’s a spin off from “good art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comforted”

[@HokeTheDog]

Another elephant in the room: many Christians are low income service occupation workers who are one work shift away from homelessness. I have had employers who have become punitive when they found out why I wanted time off. It is illegal but by the time a worker wins they are often left with very little to live on and in extreme situations,out of an a place to live.

[@Valerius123]

Remember, working at Walmart or similar positions was never meant to be a career for a fully grown man/woman. They're "student" jobs or entry jobs for kids just out of high school. Don't become complacent and stick around for 5-10 years just because you've gotten comfortable with the routine.

[@eliinapajunen7500]

I appreciate your points in this video. The LGBT part affects me deeply as someone from the acronym--I have had conversion therapy pushed at me, had people casually mention how "disgusting" LGBT people are in conversation incessantly, been told to keep quiet about it if I dare mention such--and I'm not even "acting on it"!! I don't even tell most Catholics I know because they can be so harsh and cruel about it--more ham-fisted rhetoric, less humanity. It's as if to be a "good queer" one must verbally self-flagellate whenever it comes up and either totally hide that side of oneself or use it to convince other queers to toe the line (ie blog about celibacy or whatever). It's exhausting! I just want to be as good as anyone else, that's all!

[@nathanielodell2575]

Every single one of us should be aiming to BE A SAINT. Settling for being less than that is a huge problem keeping people from the Church.

[@eliinapajunen7500]

@@nathanielodell2575 I struggle to see where your point is a good faith reading of what I said? I am of *course* striving to BE A SAINT! (Aren't all of us Catholics?) That doesn't change that there are a great many Catholics that I've met who think that's not a thing I can do, merely because of things about me beyond my control. That is what I address in my comment when I say I appreciate what Father said.

[@eliinapajunen7500]

I'm sorry if I sound annoyed. I am trying to see your point, but your comment isn't coming off friendly, just FYI

[@MatrixRefugee]

You and me both. I struggle to keep a balance between authentically living my faith and authentically living my identity. You aren't alone in this, and I'm probably stating the obvious in saying that. The hardest part is living a chaste life and that not being enough for far, *far* too many people in the Church - who don't seem to realize that we all, LGBT or het or ace, are called to live chaste lives according to our calling. Two authors have helped me out immensely: Eve Tushnet, who's written some excellent books on living an authentically Catholic and LGBT life (also some novels that would give Flannery O'Connor a run for her money, for the sheer weirdness of her characters and the situations their choices lead them into), and Dunstan Thompson, a poet in the last century who left the Church but returned and brought his partner, Philip Trowter, into the Church (I regularly ask them to intercede for me; I once even cried out to them "Can you guys be my gay Catholic dads??", whereupon, I sensed two friendly, slightly bemused presences and then felt a great peace and acceptance, as if they'd accompanied the Holy Spirit to comfort me).

[@adinadumitrescu9784]

I feel for this person. I relate to it. I'm straight but I was always puzzled why there is such aversion for the lgbt. In the way that there is no compassion for them. I suffer from a mental illness that is very stigmatised and all I desire from the others is to not vilify me, but to show compassion at least. We each bear our crosses. And I feel like people forget that working towards your salvation is a process, a journey in which Christ changes you. I now reflect of on my Christian life and for example it took 3 years of giving up an idol in my life that had been so ingrained in my personality, that when I converted it had never been even on the table to hope to get rid of it. For i didn't even know it was so grave. And quietly, God worked inside and I gave it up by my own accord after 3 years. I look with hope towards the future because God is working to sanctify us. I give you hugs 🫂

[@apalsnerg]

Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us, who are sinners.

[@theguyver4934]

Just like biblical and historical evidence proves that jesus and his apostles were vegatarians biblical and historical evidence also proves that the trinity, atonement, original sin and hell are very late misinterpretations and are not supported by the early creed hence its not a part of Christianity I pray that Allah swt revives Christianity both inside and out preserves and protects it and makes its massage be witnessed by all people but at the right moment, place and time The secred text of the Bible says ye shall know them by their fruits So too that I say to my christian brothers and sisters be fruitful and multiply Best regards from a Muslim ( line of ismail )

[@apalsnerg]

@@VoiceundertheBridge What about that?

[@VoiceundertheBridge]

@@apalsnerg It demonstrates the priesthood is corrupt. They are the sinners and should look to themselves before claiming to look after their parishioners.

[@christopherpearson2116]

@@apalsnerg What about 2 Samuel 24? Also - who, is the jeopardizer... At root. As for corrupt or inept priests... see also, Romans 13:1. And all cases of 'guided steps'. Setting the table is not something solely done by humans. Nor perhaps... is misplaced cutlery.

[@mitchellosmer1293]

@@theguyver4934 quote---Just like biblical and historical evidence proves that jesus and his apostles were vegatarians ...unquote Nope--Jesus ate lamb and fish!! ---quote--historical evidence also proves that the trinity, atonement, original sin and hell are very late misinterpretations and are not supported by the early creed .. unquote The biblical basis for the belief is generally found in Genesis 3 (the story of the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden), in a line in Psalm 51:5 ("I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me"), and in Paul's Epistle to the Romans, 5:12-21 ("Therefore, just as sin entered the ... >>Genesis looks VERY early!!! ----12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned- 13 To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come. >>>

[@sigmatau7]

Perhaps it's as simple as people having access to information. It becomes much easier the realize how silly the belief is to have, when we know so much. As the LGBT thing, you shouldn't be surprised when you preach that a thing is bad that people will come to hate that bad thing. Saying a cruel thing calmly and in a "nice" way does not negate the malice in your words.

[@cy7025]

Thank you, Father Casey. Spot on with #3 - Lack of Intimate Relationships. My mother passed away in July 2023. Not one person from my parish sent a card, nor called me to ask how I was doing, nor even dropped off a meal Not. One. It was painfully hurtful. I can't seem to convince my husband to leave and find a more loving parish. On #4 - the LBGT Issue. Spot on with the lack of compassion and mercy. During one homily the priest made the comment, "boys liking boys is wrong and God doesn't like it." And, people wonder why the LBGT community doesn't feel loved and cared about from those within the Church.

[@frankdagostino9089]

I had some cards, not many, maybe 3 or 4. As time progressed no one asked me, ‘hey Frank, let go to coffee, or Let’s do lunch or dinner. We are just adrift. Catholic are excellent with their devotions and and almost privatized Mass….I have been at my new parish 3 years. Maybe 5 people know me, I have tried to get involved in any ministry. But I just think catholics don’t know how to have real relationships with other people besides saying a “hi” on the way in to Mass. I go to Saturday vigil Mass and Sunday mornings I sometimes go to a Lutheran church just so I have community and a sense of fellowship…..after services we all go out to brunch. I can’t go often because of the distance. Nevertheless, Pleople stay in contact with me. A couple weeks ago the Pastor emailed me saying he missed seeing me was I okay. Catholics could learn a lot from Protestants. I would never leave the Church though…it is my home since birth….but like so many churches it is dysfunctional. Some places are trying to address this…hasn’t filtered down to my parish yet. I do my best and trust God…..and I have no qualms about finding community elsewhere …God made us for community and relationship.

[@cy7025]

@@frankdagostino9089 Thank you. I grew up Methodist and converted to Catholicism 21 years ago. I love my Church, but I do miss the community of my Methodist upbringing. It felt more like a family.

[@anthonyterrice7]

In y parish, the Church puts the family on a list. People bring food, comfort.

[@bryanssuperhappyfuntime2457]

Father Casey, thank you so much for your channel. I recently re-embraced my faith and your videos have been a Godsend to me in learning how to come back to my walk with Christ. God bless you and keep up all the great and hard work you do, you are greatly appreciated!! ✝️

[@monicaganderson9431]

I'm really lucky to have mostly met Catholics living their faith authentically at my time going to Catholic high school, it was one of the reasons I decided to convert from protestantism, witness is really powerful!

[@Breeze-_-]

Yeah, there are a lot of people in all denominations of Christianity, including Catholic, who fall short of being good witnesses of the faith, including myself until recently, glad you converted though!

[@thegospelmessenger72]

I'm not a Catholic, but as someone who had doubts for many years, I wanted to say that watching your videos have strengthened my faith, led me to start my KZbin channel, and truly have led me to have a closer relationship to Christ. While we may not be of the same denomination, we are both brothers in Christ. I just wanted you to know that YOU and your online ministry really do bring people to Christ. I thank God for you and pray for you every day. Bless you Father Casey.

[@PamelaCatherine24]

My parish is extremely blessed with a priest who delivers amazing homilies. My Catholic friends and I often talk about how the homily of the day was exactly what we were praying about. ❤

[@Aescobar87]

Thank you Father Casey, “no one is defined by their sin” I recently had a priest shame, scold me, and make me feel awful. It was priest not from my parish, and had no idea who I was and the struggles and journey I’ve been on returning back to my faith. I won’t let this one encounter detour me from my faith but I did think “no wonder people are leaving the faith” I appreciate your ministry, you compassion, and your gift of explaining the beliefs of the Catholic Church.

[@arthurgouvet9606]

Please, all the teachings of the Catholic church, of the Saints are easily avaible on internet. Please everyone has to improve his knowledges of the Gospel and of the person of Jesus Christ. God bless You and yours

[@bobboscarato1313]

I've seen some Catholic priests and some Lutheran pastors shaming parishioners. They're are doing a very bad job!

[@NoahMiller-j4d]

There's not more details in your post, but shame is not wrong necessarily. Some people need to hear the truth about theirs sins so they repent and save their lives. People living in homosexuality and defining themselves as that category of sin, are not on a path to salvation.

[@Monk_Life]

Can you guys bend the age restrictions on joining? I can't find a friary that isn't republican or democrat and now I'm 53. I have been looking for a decade for an non-politicized vocation. I'm super obedient to the Pope and I'm ideology free since I got rid of the tv years and years ago. I work with the homeless, volunteer in hospitals/hospice and have one of the finest ideology free educations since I fled etwn and it's right and left wing view points. Thanks, please pray for me and let me know.

[@darsisler6491]

I prayed to God to show me truth and he led me to study and know Jesus. The more I studied, the less I saw Him in all Christian churches. I love God with all my heart and I know an atheist who lives more like Jesus than many Christians. It breaks my heart to see Jesus being so ignored by the religious organizations that use his image to judge others, but they don't know his heart. I see Jesus in your heart. Thank you for giving me hope.

[@jameslovell2626]

Thank you, Fr. Casey. I’ve recently felt drawn back to the faith, but in trying to get more actively involved, I’ve felt so discouraged due to the lack of mercy and compassion from other Catholics. What happened to the Gospel??? Have we abandoned it in order to sustain certain traditions? It’s sad. This “goal” of going to heaven by condemning those around us is selfish. Our eternal life begins at Baptism, we receive the Word of God in our hearts in the Eucharist and He lives in us (or He is supposed to)… how is it a goal to go to heaven when we’ve already received the One who contains the heavens?? Our goal isn’t to simply go to heaven after we die. We already have that grace. It should be to share that heaven we’ve received with others, to be the light of the world and show the glory of God by our way of life. That’s the goal of all Christians, but I’m not seeing it in a lot of Christian places 😢

[@davidjones5547]

As a 71 year old Catholic, I stopped going to church several years ago for 2 main reasons. Reason one was the priest complaining about the need for more money from the pulpit each and every Sunday. Then there was my parish priest's support for Trump and how Biden is evil and should be excommunicated from the Church. He too made this point clear to the congregation. Can we go to mass on Sunday and not be forced to hear the political opinions of the priest, regardless of whether he is a conservative or a liberal? The pulpit is not the place to engage in political discussion. Nor is it the place to be constantly complaining about money.

[@arthurgouvet9606]

Yeah, ok. But what about your faith? What about the EUCHARIST ?

[@rramrez32ja]

So equally for you and the priest... What does scripture say about idols?... DO NOT HAVE IDOLS.... for me I am republican but I even know that politics is a equally an Idol!

[@enderwiggen3638]

My church takes $1.8 million a year to operate. If you can’t make enough to run the building and pay it’s bills but rely on donations either you need more donors or for existing ones to give more. Otherwise the church has to get help from another parish to stay alive. The priest has to ask. In the end all will feel compelled to explain to Christ why they didn’t go every week …. Some may even lose faith for not going and end up being so shamed that they turn away from God at their time of review of their lives. None of that should matter … it’s the Eucharist and it’s healing properties that should compel us to go. The internal reflection over the liturgy. The remembrance that in spite of the pain in his death that Christ died on that cross for every bad thing you have ever done on this world and that it’s each of you who put him there.

[@davidjones5547]

@@arthurgouvet9606 I believe that my faith is good and I try to live a good Christian life even though I no longer attend church. As for the Eucharist, I do receive it when my younger brother who is a Catholic priest and I get together. Maybe I will return going to church if my parish priest is either transferred or dies. But not before that. If you are wondering why I just do not attend another Catholic Church, the answer is simple. The nearest one to where I live is a good hour’s drive time.

[@giovannimartini6405]

But why not simply looking for another parish?

[@adelbertleblanc1846]

If we get that we should put the 3 virtues FAITH, HOPE and above all CHARITY into practice in our daily lives, I think that our beloved Holy Church would be in much better condition. We ALL are the CHURCH. Everyone should do something each day for the CHURCH and for Jesus Christ. Everyone. God bless you.

[@zeroelus]

Thank you for pointing to the problem of the epidemic of loneliness. I recall watching a few documentaries about that here on YT (one by the channel coldfusion is one that sticks to my mind) and was absolutely torn when footage was shown of people crying distraught about how they didn't have anyone to talk to and just wanted one(!) friend, and it's important to note that most of the clips shown where pre 2020, so that was something concerning even before lockdowns and had long been coming. A solid, caring community in YOUR Church and solid sermons of a Priest connected to what's happening are critical. The church we go to is not the most convenient, nor the shortest, nor with the nicest church, but the community and the way that priest speaks and actually inspires is, to be blunt, why I stopped being a lapsed, indifferent Catholic and am happily here, never mind that it was through one of the ceremonies of Easter 2023 when I finally put 2 and 2 together and figured out I needed medicines for my mental health issues. Sadly, the tools so far in social media I think have also not really done a lot, yes they allow jewels like these videos an more effective communication and sharing of ideas, but also allow for echo chambers, extremism, partisanship and a whole lot of unsavory things. I've said it before, and I maintain in that while I am Catholic here in Mexico, I find some Catholic spaces online, specifically English ones, revolting because they are so poisoned with a toxic degree of American partisanship and if I lived abroad I do not know if I would identify as Catholic. They are not helping The Church. Thank you for these videos, and may God Bless.

[@russellmiles2861]

With respect: I had a career dealing with such matters. There are not a few folk who se own children avoid them as they abuse them. They can be anti-social and destructive to community groups, churches, family. I use to lament colleges who suggested folk join clubs and community groups, attend mass. They only ruien such for other folk. Relationships require work, love and empathy. Folk must do the work - fortunately there are skilled therapist and community services that can help. But We just do the work.

[@ChrisSizzly]

I really wonder what you mean by “partisanship”. I have a feeling it involves people not being down with gay marriage or abortion, and the “non-partisans” would be people who support such evil.

[@Hazzard483]

I'm a convert to Catholicism I was brought in by the intellectual tradition from protestantism when I first went to a Catholic Mass everyone is very cold shoulder and not very welcoming it wasn't until I found a TLM Parish that I felt welcomed in the community

[@anthonytan7134]

welcome home bro/sis, God bless

[@atrifle8364]

That's falling in love with the Missal of 1962, not the Church. Protestants are abnormally attracted to the "right thinking" found in Missal of 1962 communities. If you can't feel like you can join me at a ordinary Mass, then there is more spiritual work to do.

[@atrifle8364]

​@@anthonytan7134- The Missal of 1962 is being restricted with good reasons. Home is the feeling of walking into any parish and loving God. It is not loving a modified missal from 1962.

[@anthonytan7134]

@@atrifle8364 I found out about TLM back in 20/21 during covid, and frankly that's the greatest discovery in my life I would argue ( like the parable of hidden treasure, Mt 13 )...now at least I can understand the meaning of worship in a Mass, not a communal celebration of Eucharist in Protestant sense. God bless

[@hasselnttper3730]

@@atrifle8364 You're saying they're the problem for loving the Tridentine Mass? That's ridiculous. Imagine being against a much older and more traditional liturgy... Anyways, why "fix" something that isn't broken? Why reinvent the wheel? The novus ordo is basically like downgrading from a beautiful cathedral to some sad looking commie block, and you're saying: "If you can't feel like you can join me in the commie block, then there is more spiritual work to do". He CAN, but that's just self flagellation for no reason.

[@OliverPeabody]

It’s amazing how simple Jesus’ teaching was (for me, it’s basically love and forgive everyone), and how hard it is to put into practice. I ignore or struggle with it every day.

[@MyCatholicBookNook]

I left my parish for reasons #1 and #5. Thank you for addressing this, I thought I was crazy! I found another parish that is closer to my age and socioeconomic demographic and it has helped so far. A big part of the problem is lack of prayer and contemplation. Weekly adoration is a must in my opinion. The church isn’t a social club, but is meant to bring us closer to God. I started to feel unwelcome once I began suffering with my health and could no longer engage in church activities because there were only active ministries and social get togethers. Any discussion quickly devolved into cultural war debates that caused unnecessary stress so I had to say enough is enough. I am cautious to be too social in my new parish, but at least it has a quieter, more prayerful atmosphere, which I really appreciate.

[@vincewarde]

If this retired evangelical minister can comment, let me say again: You nailed it Father Cole. I agree with everything you said. However, let me suggest that Catholic Priests and Deacons could learn a lot from us, without changing their theology. At the top of the list is preaching. 30+ years ago, when I was in school, I was literally taught how to preach as you outlined. Every sermon must ask and answer a question - and that question should be something the congregation is, or at least should be, asking. Every point should be an answer to the question the sermon is asking. The result is a clear. focused sermon. Does every evangelical minister use this method or one close to it? Of course not. Have I heard some great messages in Catholic churches. You bet. That said, I think that all in all, we are better at this than most priests and deacons. As for getting people connected, this is a challenge for all of us. However, small groups, recovery groups, life groups, all started with Wesley and we have been doing this for a long time. It sure wouldn't hurt is a Catholic church having trouble in this department were to ask an evangelical church doing these things well for some help and advice.

[@russellmiles2861]

Perhaps ask a question; were you answering it. A petty example I know, but there is no list of 10 Commandments in the Bible. How many times did you refer to 10 Commandments without clarifying that the are an amalgamation and redaction from various texts: and reassemble into 10 in a non-canonical Hebrew texts. Let alone explain the secular reason that supports the choice of these Commandants or more correctly, sayings. Did you ever mention that there are over 600 Commandments in the Bible that Christians churches wisely ignore or even reject based on human ethics and reflection. Or did you lie by omission in the defence of your Faith. Be honest here!

[@bobboscarato1313]

Great idea; we all should learn from each other!

[@charlier711]

Great post sir. Although I am cradle Catholic I am always impressed at the engagement, energy, and welcome feeling I get when I go to a Protestant service.

[@vincewarde]

@@charlier711 As I am impressed with the focus upon the atonement when I attend Mass.

[@trntsllrs]

I've not watched your videos for a while. This has brought me back. Thank you for what you do.

[@bcgarrels]

I agree so much with everything you say. I am a member of a parish in the inner city of a major metropolitan area. We have lots of homeless and addicted people. We also have lots of tourists who visit the city and attend Mass while visiting. I can tell that many people are put off by the homeless who sleep in the pews and sometimes make outbursts due to being high on substances or mental illness issues. I understand that people visiting an inner city church when coming from a church in suburbia with none of these issues can be unsettled. But I pray that they understand these are the people Christ ministered to in his day, and that the marginalized in society are just as precious to Christ as anyone else. While I agree that you have pointed out many of the main issues facing the Church today, I think you left one big one out. That is the pitiful lack of availability to partake in the sacrament of reconciliation (confession). I know that priests are busy and have many commitments. But I am sorry, it is not enough to have confession for a half hour to an hour before the anticipated Mass on Saturday. The sacrament of reconciliation is the primary driver of our growth as Christians in my view. It also helps form a bond between a priest and a member of the parish. I cannot tell you how I wish I had a close relationship with a priest who could take me by the hand and help me deal with my sin and proclivities to sin. I go to confession often, but it feels transactional and anonymous. That has to end. I think the appeal of protestantism is that people feel a deep connection to the officiant and feel a personal connection to that person. Of course, it is false doctrine, but I understand the appeal. How do we fix this?

[@weaver7811]

I once tried to sit down at a sermon at my grandparents' church. Got up an left after what felt like twenty minutes of "You need to donate to the church. If you don't give us money god will make you crash your car and get your money that way." Paraphrased of course but pretty much what he was saying. It didn't leave me feeling terribly inspired.

[@w33d533d]

yeah, i dont attend sermons or churches in person but i study theology and church sermons for fun sometimes, when i can stomach it, all the people i listen to preach have offended me in ways it's hard to get over and get excited about watching more of their content which i know sounds silly but i just can't get past it, when i try to watch them or listen to them again it just reoffends me. If i were there in person during such occasions they start tirades about money and ulterior motives besides talking about the scripture i wouldn't have any qualms about just getting up and leaving, i wouldn't care too much about how rude i would seem at that point, that's what i think everytime i turn off one of those bad sermons is yeah if i was there in person this would be the point i would be getting up to leave, i don't have to sit here and listen to this.

[@E-pistol]

Gnarly

[@E-pistol]

@@w33d533d , ask God to help you, the Church loves you ❤️ "Sermons for Sundays and Festivals" Saint Anthony of Padua Mystic

[@Wolffur]

I have some good news: We had 20 or more kids up on the dais last week getting their first Communion. We are still growing, just slowly.

[@pipMcDohl]

Still growing but at a rate where new believers do not compensate for the loss of believers. AkA growing in a shrinking manner.

[@Wolffur]

@@pipMcDohl Let us not discount the large numbers of converts and reverts. I'm a convert myself, in fact. St. John Neumann, Pray for Us!

[@Genre-zv9xw]

I grew up Catholic. I loved the old latin masses, the beauty of High Holy masses in particular, and communion especially. What drove me away primarily was the constant harping about "church authority." No one comes unto the Father but through Jesus. That's what Jesus taught. That's what the scriptures read, and I believe that with all my heart. But no one comes unto Jesus but through "the true church". That's what the church taught. That's what I learned in CCD classes. I reject that. Then when I accept Jesus as my lord and God, with all my heart and soul, I'm told I "left the church" and "going to hell?" And then a priest who I considered a friend when my mother passed away tried to "dry hump" me in the parking lot ... in front of my wife ... that kind of did it for me. Then I was told that because my wife was protestant and did not want to convert that I could no longer "by churches authority" receive communion? The one thing ... the ONE meaningful connection that I loved about "the church" ... I was "not allowed" to partake because of "the church's authority" ... not Jesus' command and in sheer spite of his invitation ... and this by a nihilistic band of child rapists? Not ALL clergy are evil ... all are sinners certainly ... but to bar me from communion when potential child rapists are distributing it was too much for me to deal with. I was faithful to my wife until the day she passed away of overian cancer several years ago, and she was always faithful to me. I raised my 12 year son as a single parent with no help from the "one true church" and now he is successful and on his own. I baptized him myself when he was first born, because no one else wanted to do it. He's not "religious" in the same way as I was when I received my first Holy Communion, but he loves Jesus in his heart and soul as I do, and Jesus loves and protects us both ... with or without "the church's authority". What the church needs to do in my opinion is stop using their so-called "authority" to be the barrier to Jesus but rather and enhancement of faith and love for Jesus. Without Jesus you have nothing and are no better than an ornate tomb filled with dead men's bones.

[@marcihf217]

Jesus started the Catholic Church. You can't seperate Jesus from His Church. You can't separate the head from the body.

[@Genre12345]

Jesus did NOT start the Catholic Church. Don't know where you got that, but it is NOT true, never has been try IN SPITE OF CLAIMS made on Jesus' divinity who wished only to rob him of his divine authority and claiming it exclusively for themselves while attempting to impersonate Jesus while brazenly denying him and disavowing everything Jesus and his disciples taught. No power on earth or in the heavens can ever separate us from Jesus ... even if they claim to have such authority and attempt to act upon such pretentions. Arrogance will not save you, salvation is a gift from God through Jesus only so that NO ONE may boast. Period.

[@dukebanerjee4710]

​​@@Genre12345Jesus "started" the Catholic Church in that he authorized the Apostles to teach, and the Catholic Church (and the Orthodox Church) continue in that apostolic succession. That is the basis of the Church's teaching authority, which is shared with the other apostolic churches. You don't need the Catholic Church to be in communion with Jesus, no power can separate mankind from Jesus as you say. You can certainly freewheel your own religion based on Jesus. Lots of people do. But then everyone is an authority and can claim any practice as sanctioned by Jesus, because Jesus personally told them so Even the Bible makes no sense without the Catholic Church. Christianity predates the Bible. There were plenty of texts floating around making claims about Jesus (the Gnostics claimed that Jesus was a hologram and laughed on the cross because only fools thought he really died). The Catholic Church (or Orthodox Church depending on which side of the schism you fall on), decided which texts were canon and which texts were not (throwing out all the Gnostic texts), forming the Bible as we know it today. The teaching authority of the Catholic Church is QC that keeps the Christian faith coherent. The Orthodox and Catholic churches may have split, but they each recognize the other of having valid holy orders. Meanwhile, Protestants have fragmented into countless denominations. The Catholics (and Orthodox) seem to be doing at least something right.

[@Genre12345]

Duke ... You wrote: But then everyone is an authority and can claim any practice as sanctioned by Jesus, because Jesus personally told them so There is one and ONLY ONE authority ... Jesus Christ. Period. FULL STOP. The issue that should be of paramount concern is Jesus. Any claims to his exclusive authority or claiming "dibs" on Jesus' mutually exclusive authority ignores two essential realities the first of which is that ALL AUTHORITY IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH has been given to Jesus alone by God the father and to no one else. Secondly, Jesus may have charged his apostles to teach the good news but nowhere in scripture, even that "authorized by the church," did Jesus surrender his "authority" bestowed upon him by the father, to anyone else. Salvation is a gift to mankind. It cannot be "earned," but is given as a gift so that no one can boast. Jesus paid with his own royal divine blood for our salvation and defeated death and our just punishment, not by the church's "authority" but by his authority. We can say Ave Maria, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatoribus, nunc et in hora mortis nostrae ... and perhaps she will. That's wonderful but ultimately the gift of salvation in hora mortis nostrae, is a gift from Jesus we don't deserve, but attain not by right or "authority" apart from Jesus ... by simply because he loves us. Within that, the church, should be less concerned about its claim to "authority", and more focused on Jesus ... filii Dei ... and being a conduit rather than a barrier to him as I see it. Diligo te Iesu ex toto corde rt anima Amen

[@BFDT-4]

My dear boy, take care of the homeless. If the homeless are not taken care of, then what about the rest? Next, stop the exclusion practice (us vs. them). If you can't define "us" and "them" then uh-uh, we stay away.

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

I do the first and don’t do the second.

[@DeniceCouture]

Outstanding thank you I do believe God is giving you words to teach.

[@karchariasameiliktos2660]

Dear Brother Casey, I am deeply grateful for your beautiful reflections. They really moved me. For a long time in my life, I stopped going to Mass. I experienced those suffocatingly boring liturgies. It was unbearable to hear empty words in church, cancelling out all meaning and inspiration. Thank you for pointing out this problem: I feel it's an acknowledgement of what I've been through. Unfortunately, I turned my back on Christ, mea maxima culpa. This estrangement from the Mass, from the faith, had increasingly serious consequences on my life. At a certain point, the icy, despairing absurdity of agnosticism was such that I had to question myself. I found my way back to faith. Providence led me to a parish with priests who preached the Gospel with fervor and inspiration. Since then, order, meaning and purpose have returned and I feel buoyed up. I won't comment on the rest of what you said, but I assure you it was all wonderfully relevant. Thank you so much!

[@hamstermandoom5318]

Though we have ideas differ to each other, respect is what I have toward you and your path to your future.

[@fvg6421]

My first 25 years, I served as a staunch Catholic: I attended discernment but soon found out it wasn't' for me. Married as a Catholic with a tradition mass-wedding. Divorced 5-years later as a confused 'Christian'. For the next 10 years was a pseudo-Bible thumper - I gave that shot! Why not! Attended multiple Bible churches, was a touch interested in to pre-dispensation, 'gave my life to Christ' etc. You know the path of disillusionment and spiritual confusion? But once in a while I find myself attending mass. Ironically the last mass I attended was at a proper Catholic Church (of all places) Thailand! I haven't been a committed Catholic for 2 decades now. As I go forward, I somewhat feel... 'free'!

[@carolynkimberly4021]

Keep going to Mass

[@peterblock6964]

A huge reason for people leaving churches is that chrches are primarily mere social institutions. We don't require religion to participate in socially compassionate and empathic groups of like minded people. Those who pretend to preach without solid inner spiritual experience to draw from aren't doing anything more than presenting a homework assignment, and are useless for spiritual inspiration. People NEED genuine spiritual experience beyond the ordinary life experience. Even well articulated mental descriptions of such experiences are not a meaningful substitute. It's been two thousand years. By now the RCC should have learned enough about the processes of spiritual development to facilitate the creation of Padre Pio level members alive at the same time in every country on every continent. While you obviously can't arbitrarily choose a specific person to turn into a saint of Padre Pio's caliber, by now the RCC should have developed the mechanisms whereby such people can generally develop and flourish. Bottom line: ¿You want more church attendance and membership? Give thousands and thousands of Padre Pios spread throughout the world alive in EVERY generation. Otherwise all you have is Jesus & Mary fan clubs.

[@cthulhupr]

Why do most catholic channels on KZbin obsess over liturgical abuses and the lgbt situation in the church? The parish I grew up in enfasized that everyone in church is a sinner one way or another. Personal sin is not a problem for the community but for the confessor.

[@nunagoras]

Because, among other things, current society is great on discussing the consequences instead of the causes. The world has changed. On that I believe all of us would agree. But the world hasn't changed the way some desired or has gone too much for some to even follow... Then blame the abusers of all kind, and of course those ones whom while being a minority are sort of strange to the majority! No surprise the "resistance band" groups will regroup themselves on their little few cells, like SSPX and others. Of course they're as or even more on the minority than what they think they are and what they aim to stand against, but they can to make extreme noise...

[@geertdecoster5301]

The duty of the church is to comfort the disturbed and to disturb the comfortable (Michael Ramsey)

[@fij715]

The duty of the church is to do the will of God and get as many people to heaven as possible.

[@geertdecoster5301]

@@fij715 Not the Anglican Church, nor the Early Church that was once 🙂

[@TP-om8of]

afflicted

[@ChrisSizzly]

Anglicans don’t really get a say in what the duty of our church is, they left.

[@martinjlord]

As a Protestant Pastor I will say we are all responsible. We stand and fall together.

[@tx_7134]

My problem with Christianity is that you call yourself a protestant yet preach keep some of the doctrines and traditions such as the trinity and Eucharist that came from the early catholic church fathers, if I were catholic and believed that Christ found the catholic church and is his embodiment then I couldn't stand with a protestant because you are practicing out of disobedience to God, because you know the truth but decide to be outside of the body and preach your own interpretation via sola-scriputra, Catholicism is 100% Christianity This my outside perspective of a non christian myself

[@elysiawilby4132]

Thanks for your content today, I think it's so relevant and so well thought out. We love watching your videos and they always inspire us to have meaningful discussions that help to challenge our 'status quo' walks. Looking forward to your next instalment ❤

[@TheyHurry]

Hi father Casey, can you make a video explaining the difference between Catholicism and Orthodoxy?

[@adelbertleblanc1846]

to respond to a comment, I would say that if the Churches are emptying, it is nevertheless not up to those who are inside to worry about it. But rather those who are outside and persist in remaining there. Yes, time is pressing: let us return to the Churches. And the Church is where the Altar is.

[@ruby07241]

My parish is small but our homilies are usually very good. I always try to complement the priest when the homily speaks to me.

[@russellmiles2861]

I am sure your folks brought you up well. But as an aside: if my students don't react and challenge something I have said, I consider I have done poorly. I want them to think and express their ideals; not mine. When the parish priest offers something challenging, I hope we thank them too. I am confident that you would - a good example to us all

[@amanofnoreputation2164]

Every one of these points could be dealt with and I don't think it would reverse the damage. The basic contention the modern world has with Christianity (and religion in general) is what, in former times was it's appeal: It's full of conceit asserting it has the answer to every possible problem and it has been proven over and over and over that it simply doesn't. It's a theology built for older times where the average person had narrower horizons. It may potentially have the answer to some very important problems that most people don't know how to address by other means, but this is overshadowed by it's arrogance. Ye of excessive faith. For generations now, priests have stunk of Christianity and their sermons ring hollow because they preach, as the scribes did, from dogma and not from experience. Christianity could have the right answers through comparative philosopy, but that would require demolishing every preconceived notion of anything that was every said from the pulpit. And I just don't see how you could get these pharisees to do it.

[@BertoniCostales]

Thank you very much for such a brave video. In my humble opinion, at least from what I see with my family and friends, you are absolutely right. Hypocrisy is what drives people away from the church. We are expected to be some kind of beacon in society, but sometimes, with very little humility, we cloak ourselves in a moral superiority that we lack and do something that is forbidden to us: judge people (do not judge and you will not be judged) without considering 'the plank in our own eye. On the other hand, sometimes I feel that we, as Catholics, get stuck halfway with some things. We focus on the death of Jesus when, in reality, the resurrection is the important moment ,we focus on sin and not on its forgiveness, on suffering and not on all the good things in life...we treat our Christianity as a burden and not as the gift that it is for us. We have also turned Christianity into a ticket to heaven, like any other consumer product: follow the commandments and you buy a ticket to heaven. I don't think life can be approached that way. The correct way, I believe, is to be consistent with our ideas, go to Mass because we want to, not because it is a sin not to go, help others from the heart, not as a burden, thank God for all the good things that happen to us, but also be humble and accept the bad with dignity, pray to God to be stronger, not as if we were asking the genie of the lamp for wishes. Best regards and thank you very much for your video, as always, inspiring.

[@dan69052]

Let knowledge drive out hypocrisy If you are wondering about the question of whether your sexuality is a sin or not, I welcome you to consider the following thoughts for clarification. Let’s look at some basic fundamental facts based on extensive research & ongoing R&D. During fetal development a verity of biochemical agents are introduced which determine the total development of the fetus. Major agents such as testosterone & estrogen & a host of others agents determine size, weight, hair color, eye color & sexuality along with a host of other traits. Variations in the amount & timing of the introduction of these agents have a major effect in our development. The fetus is a passive participant & has no influence in these matters. Sexuality, for example, & all other secondary traits are thus given to us. Well, this begs the question, is homosexuality a sin. If your religion or belief system states that it is, then there can be no argument. These are the rules based on this system’s dogma. If you accept this system, you must accept the rules. This is your only choice which is condemnation. If, however, you are in a belief system based on logic, reason, observation & common sense, & no reliance on spirituality, the conclusion is totally different. Replacing ancient religion & mythology with reason leads to another conclusion. Leaving religions that use condemnation & ridicule for control, can be the first step in becoming a true human being minus any imposed or fabricated guilt. There exist many variations of human sexual expression. When you leave various ancient religious beliefs behind & chose knowledge based in research, you can see & understand the true nature of humanity. You leave ignorance, hatred, & prejudice behind. In the book Gay Straight & the Reason Why by Simon Levay PhD, explanations regarding this aspect of humanity are clearly explained & is based on research. While I am not gay, I highly recommend this book. Being gay is no more of a sin than having red hair. They are both based on genetics & clearly not a sin. There is nothing wrong with you. This is the true choice. Peace

[@Catholicity-uw2yb]

ST. POPE JOHN PAUL II: “In the Church no one is a stranger, and the Church is not foreign to anyone, anywhere. As a sacrament of unity and thus a sign and a binding force for the whole human race, the Church is the place where illegal immigrants are recognized and accepted as brothers and sisters. It is the task of the various dioceses to actively ensure that these people, who are obliged to live outside the safety net of civil society, may find a sense of brotherhood in the Christian community.” - World Migration Day, July 25, 2006

[@dansdiscourse4957]

About the partisan politics thing...if the leadership of one party lead to an extra million people dying over the span of three years, is that something Catholics should consider?

[@robsco1249]

Young but wise priests like you or Epicoco are Gods' gifts to Catholic church.

[@blazel462]

A couple turnoffs: 1) holier than thou Catholics. They vary in their presentation, but basically the ones who sit up front, hang out with the priest after mass, then cut you off leaving the parking lot. Another variant, the TLM holier than thou types. They think they are somehow prioritized because they attend and push tlm. 2) people don’t even shake hands anymore. Ridiculous to be so scared after all these years(or ever to have been), plus, imho it shows a lack of faith or trust.

[@jdotoz]

Some of us just never liked touching.

[@kellendobmeier9876]

"Holier than thou" is a bit of a blanket term that gets thrown at most devout Catholics. There are some bad apples out there who fit your description but casting the "holier than thou" net inevitably catches some people who don't belong in that category. Those who join the Catholic church mostly do so out of a desire to be challenged to grow. We must lean in to that. Standing by the teachings of the church, even when the world doesn't Iike it, will be the most fruitful method.

[@MeowyMakes]

I completely agree with the TLM "holier than thou" crowd. Anyone that thinks they're automatically better just because they attend TLM is a HUGE red flag. Plus that pushes people away from wanting to attend TLM and ppl will keep attending Novus Ordo (which IS a legit form of mass, btw).

[@FourEyedFrenchman]

Pharisitical behavior is a massive turn-off, and it is unfortunately very prevalent in TLM parishes.

[@dan69052]

Don't be holier than thou; try being more knowledgable & truth tha thou If you are wondering about the question of whether your sexuality is a sin or not, I welcome you to consider the following thoughts for clarification. Let’s look at some basic fundamental facts based on extensive research & ongoing R&D. During fetal development a verity of biochemical agents are introduced which determine the total development of the fetus. Major agents such as testosterone & estrogen & a host of others agents determine size, weight, hair color, eye color & sexuality along with a host of other traits. Variations in the amount & timing of the introduction of these agents have a major effect in our development. The fetus is a passive participant & has no influence in these matters. Sexuality, for example, & all other secondary traits are thus given to us. Well, this begs the question, is homosexuality a sin. If your religion or belief system states that it is, then there can be no argument. These are the rules based on this system’s dogma. If you accept this system, you must accept the rules. This is your only choice which is condemnation. If, however, you are in a belief system based on logic, reason, observation & common sense, & no reliance on spirituality, the conclusion is totally different. Replacing ancient religion & mythology with reason leads to another conclusion. Leaving religions that use condemnation & ridicule for control, can be the first step in becoming a true human being minus any imposed or fabricated guilt. There exist many variations of human sexual expression. When you leave various ancient religious beliefs behind & chose knowledge based in research, you can see & understand the true nature of humanity. You leave ignorance, hatred, & prejudice behind. In the book Gay Straight & the Reason Why by Simon Levay PhD, explanations regarding this aspect of humanity are clearly explained & is based on research. While I am not gay, I highly recommend this book. Being gay is no more of a sin than having red hair. They are both based on genetics & clearly not a sin. There is nothing wrong with you. This is the true choice. Peace

[@mrs.g.9816]

I do remember how cold and unwelcoming the church of my childhood was. Yes - It's very important to have community - a church "family" - with the priest or pastor being approachable and keeping in touch with each family in the congregation.

[@DallasAvonJudeDeZilva]

The true solution is rekindle the holy spirit in the Church. Not by our strength but by the power of God.

[@matthradek89]

Before we returned to the Catholic Church, we spent a few years with a Christian church that did an amazing job with points 2 and 3. Sermons were bible led and very relevant to modern lives, often breaking down each word and explaining what the original translator might have been trying to convey. The community was warm, welcoming and very involved with their church. This church continues to grow its membership, often through parishioners leaving the “older churches”. I often how the Catholic Church could replicate this type of energy without straying too far from its roots.

[@ianwhite4615]

Hay quick question, what is going on with upon fr review?

[@Itakepicturesofthesun]

I think it got taken down because of copyright reasons. Such a shame

[@seraph-8086]

It's because Fr. Tuttle has been removed from the ministry for allegations against him...

[@DayleDiamond]

@@Itakepicturesofthesun The investigations against Friar Tuttle have concluded and he has been removed from duty.

[@Itakepicturesofthesun]

@@DayleDiamond oh, man I didn't even know about this. My goodness Tuttle has been removed.

[@kaitlin8669]

I was a convert and have attended the Catholic church for 10 years. I have made zero friends during that time despite putting time and effort. I tried many churches before the catholic church and the catholic church was by far the most unfriendly and cliquish. I only stayed because i thought it was true. But being surrounded by snotty snobby people who are fake all the time has made me question if this is the right religion. I feel like i became a worse person after becoming catholic. No matter how hard i work, ill never be accepted by the group. They love men with trouble pasts and they are granted total forgiveness but the lesser sins of women seem unforgiveable. There were so many grifters and people sucking up to powerful people and shielding them while the weak just get victim blamed. There seems to be too much of a culture of abuse. It just seems like so many people view the church as an exclusive club and they need to kick the jnattractive riftraft out like its some sort of rich persons club. Not only that but when i have two ectopic pregancies and i asked for an emergency baptism, the local priests didnt bother to show or put in effort both times. I was treated terrible both times and told i was too entitled and that baptism wasnt needed and that i didnt trust god enough. What is the point? I kept getting rejected while beautiful craddle Catholic women got the royal treatment. Help with buying houses, toys, meals when sick, help with businesses, and so on. I didnt mind being excluded until the second emergency baptism requests failed. My 54 day novenas failed for baptisms. Im scolded for having my prayers fail, while other women with stories of answered prayers are worshiped. Im realing. Im starting to think its all fake.

[@Catholicity-uw2yb]

POPE BENEDICT XVI: “The Jansenist mentality presented a grim and severe face of God, very remote from the face revealed to us by Jesus. It lead to a very strict and widespread interpretation of moral life.” In the 17th century the Jansenist heresy preached a religion of fear and anguish. Priests were obsessed with “sins of the flesh.” God was presented only as a harsh and condemning judge, not as a merciful Savior and Good Shepherd. The Jansenists taught that only a few people were saved, and only the purest of souls, free of all taint of sin, could receive Communion without the fear of committing a sacrilege. New Eucharistic devotions emphasized the separation and distance between God and ourselves. St. Vincent de Paul said: “We no longer see people receiving Communion, not even at Easter, the way they formerly did.”

[@yeetmaestro575]

A lack of community, especially for those under 30 and not in college has been the hardest challenge for me since I converted two years ago.

[@GodsLoveandGrace-dl8yt]

I have mixed feeling about declining church attendance over the decades. As much as I would like to see the church grow, we shouldn't be too concerned about number alone. I think it is more important to have smaller congregation that is serous about their faith than to have large numbers of seat warmers who don't live the Christian walk during the week. Even though church attendance might be small compared to 100 years ago, who we have left are more likely to be dedicated. It's easy for people to say they are Christian on a census form, but how many of them have made Jesus Lord of their life compared to those who tick the box because they go to church once a year or believe that their might be a mysterious God somewhere out there. For that reason, I'm not that worried about what the statistics say, but it does concern me however that their is increasing hostility towards God and his church. It is a shame that many people have become discouraged these days. Church should be a place where people want to flock to for the right reasons.

[@E_Gfree]

So I guess the question becomes, if you attend a church with a priest that doesn’t resonate the message well with you, do you keep going “just because”?

[@gamezswinger]

The Vatican and various dioceses have been criticized for their immense wealth and luxurious lifestyles of some clergy, which contrasts with the Church’s teachings on poverty and humility. Pope Francis has notably tried to address this issue by promoting simplicity. Historical Actions: The Church’s involvement in events like the Crusades, the Inquisition, and the support of colonialism contradicts its teachings on peace, justice, and love for all humanity. There have been cases where Church leaders preach against behaviors like homosexuality, contraception, or divorce, yet some clergy members have been found to be engaged in the same behaviors they condemn. The Church preaches the dignity and equality of all humans, yet it continues to prohibit women from becoming priests, leading to accusations of hypocrisy regarding gender equality. Scandals involving the mismanagement of church funds, such as embezzlement or corruption within the Vatican Bank, highlight discrepancies between the Church’s advocacy for ethical financial practices and the actions of some of its leaders. The list goes on and on....

[@nickdesanto6119]

On the community thing. Atheist now but raised catholic when I was a kid. One memory I had was there was a communal Rosery prayer. Everyone got there early, and the priest greeted everyone. " Hello, how are you? Is there anything you want me to add to the prayer?" Family, friends and neighbors getting together. Everyone grabbed the giant rosery and went around in a circle, who ever held the bead lead the prayer. If it was a kid the parents helped them.

[@sylviamontaez3889]

i used to despair over declining mass attendance, but now i dont. why? because upon this rock jesus built his church. for as long as we dont give in to despair, the gates of hell will not prevail. for there are already signs of growth and revival, such as increased baptisms in france for the fourth year in a row since 2020, and record breaking attendance at easter in the uk

[@adammalinauskas8154]

Hello, I just wanted to say I appreciate your approach to this. Too often Catholics are very quick to say what's wrong with "the culture" (whatever that is) and don't do a lot of inward looking at our own communities. Seeing a splinter in someone else's eye before removing the beam in our own as it were. As a series, I think this could have been a lot longer and contain more segments considering the huge spectrum that exists between "non-affiliated" or "not going to Church" or being "areligious" and being an atheist. To me, an atheist is someone who has made the intellectual decision to not believe in God (for any of the reasons you mentioned in the other video). In my experience, people are often in a scale of belief (which includes the terms above but also such descriptors as "not Christian", "agnostic" "unconvinced" or something else. Their releuctance towards Christianity in or Catholicism in particular has much more to do with the human reasons above than any specific philosophy or ideology. 90% is failures on our part both in our contemporary Christianity and historically. God bless you!

[@ThomasBoyd-gx9wr]

Awesome. God bless you Father Casey. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@johanneabelsen1644]

I am starting RCIA this summer, so our local parish of Church of Sacrament is getting one member bigger.😊

[@mattnelson9477]

Community is huge; I’m a member of the Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, and Sunday Dinner/Fellowship after Mass is one of our hallmarks. One other thing that we’re known for, and where I will offer some constructive criticism, is liturgy. Fr., I didn’t hear you mention that, but the SSPX, Sedevecantists, and other more traditionalist groups outside the Church are swelling due to bad liturgy. The “conservatism” that you seem to be critical of is part of the backlash against bad liturgy. People would not leave the Church in droves if they believed that the Eucharist was truly Christ’s Body and Blood, and as they say, “lex orandi, lex credendi.” I’m not advocating for everyone to switch to the TLM or my own beloved Mass of Divine Worship, but if our liturgies look like a cheap knockoff of the Protestant Church down the road, people will go to there. Use the full 2,000 year history of liturgical music, not just stuff from 1970 onward (most of which, let’s face it, sounds dated and isn’t easy to sing) Give communion on the tongue at a communion rail, or at least have kneelers as an option. Chant the Mass, especially priests. It’s meant to be chanted. Wear vestments that don’t look like table cloths from the 1978 edition of some home magazine. Treat Mass like the Holy Sacrifice that it is.

[@bensfortin]

After hearing this I am so fortunate to attend mass at two Catholic Churches with excellent priests. Their homilies make all the difference in the world and when I visit somewhere else I miss what I have at home. Church here in Michigan and then the virtual mass in Portlaoise, Ireland.

[@andreasviken2949]

I used to be atheist until my late 20s. I’m 31 now and thinking of joining the Catholic Church. I was baptized in a Lutheran church I think. I hope I can still be a part of the community going forward. I’m simply looking for structure and something to hold me accountable for my bad actions because living alone has allowed me to make a lot of bad sinful choices.

[@carolynkimberly4021]

If you can, find a Traditional Latin Mass parish and talk to the priest. He will give you sound instruction and you will be received much quicker.

[@SethNoorzad]

God bless you

[@atrifle8364]

​@@carolynkimberly4021- That is converting people to the Missal of 1962, not the faith. The restrictions are there for good reason. Loving Holy Mother Church means more than loving an older Mass form.

[@atrifle8364]

​@@andrirublov- There is nothing wrong with the current missal. In especially the United States there is a rebellion focused on the Missal of 1962. Those communities abnormally attract Protestants and people rejecting Vatican I and II. The "TLM" as people imagine exists simply doesn't and is being restricted for the best of reasons. If you want to convert to Catholicism find the best parish you can locally. There are plenty of orthodox priests using the current missal. Just look for pro-life events etc

[@sandyriver4705]

@@andrirublovnovus ordo in our country is so beautiful and so reverrant as well

[@mssixty3426]

Well - - I started a scathing comment after hearing the first part of your video, then I cut it, and decided to listen to rest of your comments. I stand corrected. I must say - the three Priests from Nigeria and one from Mexico in our Diocese are exactly what you are asking for. We are blessed in our poor state. Blessed be Good!

[@rhwinner]

I don't know the solution, but I do know watering down the gospel is _definitely_ NOT the answer.

[@stephenandersen4625]

Living the Gospel is.

[@PuppyLuv2504]

Love your video and I could not agree more with everything you said. Let's control the things we can and help reduce the amount of people leaving the church.

[@eagleswings5693]

If a brother or sister be naked and in lack of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Go in peace, be ye warmed and filled; and yet ye give them not the things needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it have not works, is dead in itself.

[@margaretwandel5660]

As someone who has been mistreated within a church community I absolutely agree with most of your points. However, conservative churches openly preaching homosexuality is sin and that marriage is between one man one woman are growing and vibrant churches. I have no objection to sheltering people from abuse. But avoiding discussion of the sinfulness of homosexual behavior will not bring people back to church.

[@hannahfoster5970]

Adding some Protestant insight here, but it's not just the Catholic Church having these issues, it's Christianity as a whole. There's been a major shift in American culture in the last 30 years towards secularism (and other places in the world no doubt). I'm almost 30 and I'm the youngest person in my Methodist congregation, and I was the first one baptized here in years from what my pastor was telling me. God bless you, Fr. Casey for your amazing work!

[@mapelp7]

Fr. Casey, speaking on the topic of relevant sermons, you just gave us an excellent standard with your presentation. Thank you for being willing to act as a lightning rod in exchange for presenting the splendor of truth. No matter who gets bothered.

[@PrettyGirl-un3qh]

As a proud Catholic who also happens to be sexually diverse, I would like to express the following: Fortunately - no matter how hard you try - you may keep the gays away from the Church, but you will not keep the gays away from God. The fact that so many of us have held on to our faith in a loving God while being insulted and mistreated by fellow Christians seems like a little miracle to me...

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

Sorry to hear how you are mistreated but I am inspired by your faith. I hope the “you” isn’t directed at me personally, as I hope I’m doing my part to help, not hurt, but can’t say I’m perfect.

[@PrettyGirl-un3qh]

@@BreakingInTheHabit No, father, it was not directed at you personally, it was aimed at the cruel people out there. Keep that preaching sweet, we enjoy it!

[@ianhepplewhite4328]

Father Casey - this is a great observation, and as someone who is considering conversation (after many Pentecostal years) its a welcome comment ... I've been going along here in the UK to weekly Mass for a couple of months now, and our priests preaching (we have 3!) varies greatly, but I suspect the 'togetherness' is perhaps the most noticeable by its absence, and events to break down barriers that appear thin on the ground. Its not putting me off though, lol!

[@michaelgeorgio7780]

While I agree with the premise of Father Casey’s message, I’m finding a growing Church. I recently saw extraordinary increases in adult Baptisms. A Diocese in the Dallas/ Fort area reported a 70% increase. Other Metropolitan areas like Charlotte, NC and Orange County, CA saw significant increases as well. We need to grow even more and that takes all of us.

[@robertcrawford718]

The new priest at my local parish told me to find a different church. That drove me away from attending church.

[@Itakepicturesofthesun]

A lot of Christian's I have met unfortunately are two-faced and constantly hound people. My own grandmother is incredibly distrusting and disliking of people who are different (racist) It's such a shame, these people are more common than they should be. How could you be like "oh yeah, I'm a great Christian" and then immediately just start hating people. Whatever happened to loving thy neighbor? I just wish the problem wasn't so common and that people would put god's teachings into practice more often.

[@bernadette573]

My priest gave a wonderful homily on self righteous people who go to reconciliation and proceed to tell him a litany other people's sins instead if their own.

[@ridetrainz]

I went from attending my local parish weekly to just sometimes and attend the TLM instead because of some the points you talked about

[@christiandpaul2022]

what's a tlm?

[@DarthHLT]

Glad to see that he is healthy, but sad at the same time that the other chanel Upon Friar Review is gone and that all the Videos are "deleted" / dissapered. Pity...

[@amberjulia123]

It’s bc Fr Tuttle was removed from ministry due to sexual abuse. Info about it was released on April 4th of 2024. An investigation was done and the allegations were determined to be true. The victim is receiving counseling at this time. It doesn’t state the age or gender of the victim.

[@Wolffur]

There was a scandal involving Fr. Tuttle, and although I enjoyed Upon Friar Review myself, it doesn't look good to have been seen with him.

[@JohnAvantiBK]

How about using incense and sanctity bells during mass. How about on The weekend all the Priests serve the host instead of having people wash their hands with sanitizer. At my parish the alter girls and boys do nothing. My parish has 3 priests and three deacons why cant they serve all masses and serve the host on the weekends. last mass of 3 ends at 1230 sat n sun...

[@jeffbadke5932]

As someone "later on" in life I have my own observations. Some of these "complaints" have been around a LONG time. They didn't stop people from going to church "back then" because people actually felt an allegiance to the church/faith. There was Catholic GUILT. There was a fear in God, and what might happen if they did not follow the rules. People were more interested in conforming. President Kennedy..."Ask not what your country can do for you...but what you can do for your country". That was the times. People served their country, enlisted in armed services, etc.. Now the military struggles to field a team, as enlistments are continuing to drop. Gee, sounds familiar. It's hard to have community when the members are all about ME (it's what it feels like now). First three items on your list are about what someone is doing or providing to ME. Why don't THEY have better sermons for ME? Why are THEY cutting ME off in the parking lot? Why aren't they making ME feel more welcome? Intimate relationships? Really? The people that have hundreds of "friends" on Facebook? At church they're worried about intimate relationships? The last 2 items relate to people not wanting to acknowledge another's views. The impassioned priest/bishop that said what he believed, to be in line with Christ's teachings, BUT, the pulpit is no place for partisan politics....Sometimes you can't get one without the other. Honestly, people today just don't like it when someone else has a different opinion, or, heaven forbid, get challenged. Today, we just cancel someone who has another opinion. We say..."They are hypocrites, bigots, etc.." Or, In this case, just don't go back. I've told my own "kids" that have given me some of these same "excuses" of why they aren't regular church attendees...Just maybe it's not all about you. Go to church, worship God, receive the sacraments, experience the presence of God in the Eucharist. Be the light of Christ for others. Oh, YOU don't feel welcome? How did you make the person next to you feel? Oh, someone cut you off after Mass? Why are you still judging them and talking about them? Not very Christ-like. We will not build community until we can get people to leave their EGO at the door.

[@Petroseni]

Wow! What you’re saying is totally true… It’s not about you… It’s not about me it’s about our relationship with Jesus Christ the son of God he was risen from the dead.

[@LahBT575]

The 4th one is such a BIG problem! I'm not mentioning the LGBT precisely, but this judgmental behavior that so many christians have! I had a very similar debate with a friend of mine, who was exactly doing that. Belittling sinners. So I told him "and what Jesus said when he saved Mary Magdalene? John 8:7-11, Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her" And Jesus himself, didn't condemn her. Jesus taught us to embrace sinners, and not only throw rocks at them. Through compassion is how we can show them salvation

[@ChancyC]

I think the question that is not being asked is... what is more important? The number of people who call themselves Christian, or the number of people who believe in and live for Christ. There has been many years now in the West where being "Christian" was simply the default. It was what you were and what you did, but it also bread a hollow faith. Today being an open and strong Christian is unpopular and even shunned. This has indeed led to a loss in numbers of the church. But this CAN be (if handled properly) a time of renewal and growth (in REAL Christian faith). It is sad to see so many people "leave the church" but the question actually should be, were they ever actually a part of the church or just there as it was easy and what you were "supposed to do" My point? The goal shouldn't be to focus on how many people come or are "driven away." Preach the Gospel, speak the truth, do not compromise on values, and those who come and remain in the church are those who are true believers. People will seek Truth. If you aren't speaking it, they won't come to you. The response will inevitably be "but we want everyone to come to the church." The answer? Even Christ knew people would reject him. Our job isn't to pad the numbers. The Holy Spirit will do its work, our job is to be there when it does, to who it does.

[@ChancyC]

Just to add for thought. If you were in a church with 500 people in 1990 and only 100 of them were truly on fire for Christ, that same church in 2024 now has 150 people, ALL of them on fire for Christ. Has your church grown or shrank? I would argue its grown and been improved, though numerically (and often financially) its shrank.

[@vladdietheladdie7345]

​@@ChancyC hmmm, interesting point, sir!

[@respectkindness-oj6xz]

exactly. appearances can be deceiving and bureaucracy​ doesn't prove anything @@ChancyC

[@VojtechFort]

I feel like a lot of novus ordo parishes are still filled by people who attend without faith, and these numbers are shrinking, I also think it is quite hard to become real christian here. That is why, I think, despite the restrictions, TLM is growing, and there won't go people who don't believe, why would they? For me it is sad that pole Francis is so uninformed that he keeps restricting it. TLM restrictions might not be main factor of church attendance dropping but in the video everything else was mentioned, except this

[@davids5956]

@@VojtechFortThere is a desire for liturgy that is more “high church” than “low church”. In the Catholic church in the U.S. the only high church option is TLM. There is no reason that the NO can’t be done more high church. “Anglo- catholic” parishes in the Anglican have been doing it that way for hundreds of years - a beautiful and traditional liturgy in the style similar to the NO. Of course, the sacraments aren’t recognized by the Roman Catholic church, but we can learn from them how to make our NO liturgy much more rich and formal.

[@rmglabog]

Having studied in Catholic schools, including college and graduate schools, I don't have any issues with theology or teachings. It's the behavior of priests and the administration of the Church itself which I find problematic. I have nothing against Jesus, the Virgin Mary, the Saints. I'm however doubtful about the people who claim to represent them.

[@Jake_Frac]

As a 32 year old former Catholic, I really appreciate your honesty and willingness to be self critical. You hit on a lot of reasons why I believe in God, but can't support the religion. The hypocrisy and LGBT issues are really hard for me to overlook. That being said Christians like yourself make me believe that maybe someday I can find myself back supporting the church.

[@NoahMiller-j4d]

There's no eternal salvation for those in a Church moving in a direction that accepts sin. Rather conform to God's will and Commandments. Don't try to find "priests" and "churches" that j justify homosexuality sins.

[@Jake_Frac]

@@NoahMiller-j4d you really got to ask yourself what kind of god says love between two consenting adults is a sin? I can't square it in my mind. If it is what stops me from being welcome in heaven then so be it. I don't do what I do and believe what I believe for the reward of heaven. I do those things so my conscience can rest at night.

[@workingmoodleclass5925]

Another great video, God bless you and your ministry

[@johnparker6749]

“This is not in question, and I have no interest in challenging it” This pretty much sums up the reason the Catholic Church and Christianity in general is becoming quite irrelevant these days. The inability, or lack of willingness to challenge beliefs about God and what God “thinks” about a given topic is a stance that really has no place in a civilized society. As we learn more from science and become more rational human beings, and consequently less superstitious, this type of answer is simply unjustifiable.

[@carmenanico2786]

I AGREE TOTALLY FATHER WHAT YOU'RE SAYING. MORE THAN EVER WE NEED TO PREACH THE GOSPEL WITH FIRE AND LIVE CHRIST LIKE LIFE BUT SHOWING THE WORLD THAT SIN GOES AGAINST ALL OF US.

[@joesouthwell4080]

The issues addressed here are not what the data suggests. People leave the church at around the age of puberty (12-18). There isn't a place or process at most churches for deeper questioning, or a good process of transitioning from a child in the church to an adult in the church.

[@CaptainGrimes1]

I can't believe what Father Patrick did, it really made me question who to trust in the church 😔

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

Remember that you don’t actually know what Fr. Patrick did. Don’t jump to conclusions.

[@christiandpaul2022]

what did he do?

[@naturelife418]

Church is supposed to be a refuge for sinners. We have sins, if people cannot come to church with their burdens and be accepted why should they come. Be authentic first, inspire second. Trying to improve is a lifelong thing, pretending to be perfect is not reasonable.

[@fij715]

The world is the refuge for sinners. The church is the refuge for repenters.

[@tylere.8436]

​@@fij715 Except the ones with rainbow vestments and flags, those churches are compromised.

[@purelysmetalnightcore]

I think the problem is sinners don't want to be called sinners. Too many churches tell people they're fine the way they are and sinning the way they are so why bother going to church? Everything's fine, so you don't need to. Then these same people get pissed when a legitimate church that actually cares about the state of their souls tells them they need to actually put the work in and stop sinning because whatever they're doing (sleeping around, for example) isn't okay.

[@NoahMiller-j4d]

@@purelysmetalnightcore Exactly.

[@isiseungella4688]

Thank you for being a vibrant example of what a good Catholic can be. The fact I found more outside of Catholic churches than in is the reason I no longer consider myself a Catholic nor do I go to church. I found a lot of partisanship, "our" group is holier vs another religion. When working with various churches to collaborate on social projects to (disabled, elderly, terminal patients and their family, migrants etc) people of a small town I had to continually subtly remind them that it was not about THEIR church, THEIR congregation but helping anyone in desperate need which I found shocking for priests, pastors and reverends, much lesser from non Christian religions. Refreshingly nuns were far more open-minded than the local priest. It led the way for followers to adopt the same attitude and use their help as a way to push conversion on most vulnerable people. So I have no idea how things are in the USA. I just know that staying OUTSIDE the 'church' has helped me apply the Gospel day to day in a deeper way. Spirituality is fine, religion is loosing its way. If that is not a crisis, I don't know what is.

[@AallthewaytoZ2]

Something is going on and people can sense it.

[@SteveKilgore27]

With regards to the first point you brought up, in addition to cutting out gossip, one of the biggest ways I found to try and be more Christ-like is reminding myself to always give everyone the benefit of the doubt, and choose to believe that everyone is acting with the purest intentions until proven otherwise. That being said, I am never foolhardy when it comes to giving out too much trust. I give everyone the benefit of the doubt, but I still must be cautious, so as to prevent myself or others from being taken advantage of by someone who definitely does not have the best intentions, despite my hopes. I do not assume that someone walking behind me on a dark street on a late night in the city is a mugger, but I recognize that I must still not put myself in a situation where if that person was a mugger I could get hurt.

[@francesmanderson176]

I have been a Catholic all my life. I have never agreed with the church's view that LGBTQ people are sinners and ate only deserving of compassion and the encouragement to become non-sinners: either lead a platonic life only or "go straight". It has never made sense to me that as God is our Creator, that we are all created in us image (our souls) that LGBTQ people are somehow wrong, that it is a wrong path that they choose to follow. No. Sure God loves us all and wants our hearts and minds to be used to be good to the Earth, good to ALL of mankind, good to ourselves and to form loving and committed relationships and family units as best we can whether blood related or not. Role models are not stereotypes. Love is infinite. Commitment is not easy and won't always be reciprocated. If God created humans only as male and female purely for procreation, then why has homosexuality always existed? Value people's souls, value their humanity, teach about love and positive relationships without stamping a judgement upon it. I pray with all my heart that the church will listen and rethink their stance. The church has become to exclusive rather than welcoming and inclusive. The world and humanity will NEVER be perfect or united. Working towards being active and faithful Catholics is not easy. By the way, as you've pointed out yourself, the term Catholic means UNIVERSAL. Through Jesus, his disciples and especially John the Baptist, we were shown that becoming followers of Jesus, believers in the Holy Trinity, was not a closed club of chosen people. Through baptism we can become followers of the faith, whatever our backgrounds. Jesus opened heaven to us and it is available to all souls deemed worthy by God, not Man. Our souls, our intentions as well as our actions towards ourselves and one another is what matters. ❤🙏

[@Akrafena]

Conrinthians 6:9

[@NoahMiller-j4d]

Then you are not Catholic. You don't profess the one true faith. Homosexuality is a sin, it's not something a person is created with or an identity. It would be like accepting someone calling themselves a kleptomaniac, but they say it's okay I don't steal. It's still wrong. You can't identify as a sin.

[@westfalltribe7874]

​@@NoahMiller-j4dIt's no more a sin than any of YOUR sins... you have no right to judge them! How do you know what sins are worse than others??

[@kentd4762]

Thank you, Fr. Casey, for your thoughtful and honest video. God bless you and your ministry.

[@delizzadavila3657]

I love your clarity and compassion ❣️ You remain in my prayers Fr Casey🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@lzlsanatomy]

In hardcore Catholic countries like the Philippines, there's too much emphasis on worship not much about love of neighbors. I think spirituality and connection with each other is more important. I crave authentic connections

[@pineapplesoda]

Amen! The church needs about 10,000 more priests like this guy.

[@RPlavo]

Good luck!

[@irishman5562]

If we don't confront the sin isn't that the same as condoning it?

[@RPlavo]

@@irishman5562 well yes, but we don’t agree on what should be confronted first….after abortion of course first, then?…..sins of the flesh? Fraud? Violence against children as in war? Clergy coverup? War? Instigating an insurrection against lawful authority?

[@user-wo7rz3yn4o]

I never have been and likely never will be a good catholic, and so my existence is not a benefit to the church, however I am glad for the church for your existence and example. Peace be with you.