A Catholic bishop has appealed to young people not to allow the negativity of social media or other people undermine their faith.
In his homily at a diocesan Mass for young people on Mission Sunday at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon, the Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran noted that quite a few of the young people who responded to diocesan online synodal survey said they don't participate in the life of the Church because they don't see their friends there and they would be uncomfortable with the peer-pressure they might experience.
He explained that he had invited them to the liturgy so that they would see that there are actually more of young people than they might imagine who are interested in or inspired by Jesus and by what he has to say.
“It takes courage to be a disciple of Jesus. It always has,” Bishop Doran acknowledged. “But many of you young people not only have courage, but you also have idealism and generosity and I know you have the capacity to commit to something or someone in whom you believe. Don't be afraid to commit your lives to Jesus.”
He suggested that young people support one another in their faith, go together to Mass, and see if they can be involved together in their local parish.
“Whenever someone in your group comes under peer-pressure because of his or her faith, stand with him or her, push back,” he said.
Bishop Doran encouraged them to develop the habit of dropping into a church to spend a few moments in the presence of God.
“Talk to him about what is in your heart, even, and especially, if things are a bit confused or uncertain. Take time also to listen for the wisdom that comes from the Holy Spirit.”
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