Today is the twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
With Pope Leo XIV in France as I’m writing this it’s interesting to note the reception he’s getting there, especially from young people. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-09/correspondent-brings-us-to-pope-leo-s-meeting-with-young-people.html and https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-09/pope-young-people-vigil-stade-de-france.html
There’s clearly a renewed interest in Catholicism among young people, and not just in France. All over the United States I’m hearing about OCIA classes with far more young people than usual. We’re seeing it here in Auburn as well. I try to have a phone conversation with each person who contacts our church about Catholicism and I spent a good part of my summer talking to about 150 people, more than half of whom are college students or student aged.
At a time when Europe has become very secular and America isn’t far behind, our young people are saying, “not so fast“.
I think sometimes we forget that God is still in control and His Holy Spirit is still active in our lives and the lives of young people. I think it’s fair to say that the reports of the death of religion, especially Catholicism, has been greatly exaggerated.
So one question that comes up is what can we lay Catholics do to assist or support what’s going on. Here are a few thoughts:
If you have a young non-Christian or non-Catholic, even if they’re Christian, consider inviting them to Mass with you.
Consider volunteering to mentor or sponsor a young person in OCIA, or Confirmation prep, etc.
Consider volunteering to do some work, such as serving those in need, and invite a young person to come with you.
Be prepared to give others a short reason for why you’re Catholic.
These are just a few quick thoughts on this topic. You can probably come up with others.
Just one quick comment about today’s readings. Paul’s letter to the Philippians is a magnificent bit of writing. I encourage you to read the entire letter, it’s just 4 chapters, and think about what it means in your own life. Paul was a master at helping us understand what living the faith should look like.
That’s it for now. Thanks for reading.
I hope you have a great week.
Peace, Bob
