I read the article. It’s interesting, and I understand the author’s concern. I too would be really uncomfortable, had I not gone to a conference myself. While the conferences now are still charismatic, they aren’t like what was portrayed in the article anymore. Like I said, I don’t know much about conferences past, but from what I’ve gathered, there was a lot of misleading with the charismatic movement and still has some.
In response to the music, which the author seemed to have a big issue with, the truth is, teens like me often get bored by Gregorian Chant, organ music, etc. I like Gregorian Chant actually, but also Contemporary Christian music. I’m into pop/alternative music. So rather than listen to lyrics that are in-moral and offensive, I’d rather sing to the Lord. A friend of mine once said, if I’m going to be listening to music, why don’t I listen to something that praises God? The reason most of it is Protestant, is that there aren’t too many Catholic artists out there. I know of Matt Maher, and a local group (actually from my parish) but that’s about it.
Some of the Protestant groups are a bit iffy with the lyrics being sound with Catholic doctrine, but if you sift through, you can find lots of lyrics that are very much with the Catholic doctrine. St. Augustine once said, “to sing is to pray twice.”
Ok, I’m done with my music rant
I think the author made a point, the conferences may seem like Catholic doctrine plus a Protestant “pep rally”. But think about how many young people flock to Protestant denominations, why? Because they appeal to teens who are young and want something that isn’t a dry stuffy church with organ music. Now take this teen appeal, and apply Catholic teachings. The result is teens, actually interested in Catholicism. Many Protestant groups do go overboard and put more emphasis on the lightshow and pyrotechnics, but I think Steubenville still keeps it’s focus on the important thing; God.
