In the document issued at the end of their assembly on “Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment” the Synod fathers invite us to “stand bravely” by the side of all young people, not just those engaged with the Church, to reach out and walk with everyone. In reality, it’s an immense challenge even to reach our own Catholic young people.

Research led by Matthew van Duyvenbode published in June this year demonstrated the diversity of young Catholics in England and Wales. For example, within the 60 per cent of 15-25 year old Catholics who actually call themselves “Catholic”, half place no importance on going to Mass and only 37 per cent feel that following Catholic guidelines in their personal lives is important.