Is there anything I /we can DO about liberal Catholic theology in the Church?

[trials]

I am so frustrated. After re-verting to the faith, regretting my past, confessing, learning to love my faith and being filled with a desire to learn more and pass on this wonderful Truth to others, I felt profound disappointment when I discovered that liberal Catholic theology is being taught and sanctioned at all levels in our Church.

I’ve posted on this before when I came across it in one particular circumstance, an adult faith formation class run by the Diocese - of course, but since then, the Holy Spirit has brought me in touch with people who are at the highest levels and leading the Diocese I’m in, as well as others who teach nationwide and are sanctioned by various dioceses around the country - teaching what? Watered down versions of the Truth.

Specific examples of beliefs I’ve come across - being taught: there is no longer such a thing as mortal sin, missing Sunday Mass is not a big deal, the practice of homosexuality is not a sin, too much emphasis is placed on the Eucharist and the Real Presence (yes I really was taught this), everyone’s spirituality is equally valid, when are we getting women priests, etc.

God help us, literally, God help us. Once the penny dropped about my faith, I met people who were high up in our Diocese and they attend regular conferences and seminars promoting this liberal attitude. What is going on?

But more importantly what can I do about it? As regards my own back yard, I have taught a faith formation course that was totally in keeping with our beloved faith, but I feel like I need to do more. And yet the problem seems so widespread I don’t know what I can do about it. It’s like a rot in the Church, and as far as I can tell, Bishops are either not aware of this or are not putting their foot down because they don’t want to offend others - I’m not sure, but what can I / we do about it? It’s beyond a joke. It just ignores the Catechism and distorts the Truth and makes it into something man can mould to suit his own weaknesses. We need Jesus to clean the Temple again. (Rant over)

 

[JackQ]

I am so frustrated. After re-verting to the faith, regretting my past, confessing, learning to love my faith and being filled with a desire to learn more and pass on this wonderful Truth to others, I felt profound disappointment when I discovered that liberal Catholic theology is being taught and sanctioned at all levels in our Church.

I’ve posted on this before when I came across it in one particular circumstance, an adult faith formation class run by the Diocese - of course, but since then, the Holy Spirit has brought me in touch with people who are at the highest levels and leading the Diocese I’m in, as well as others who teach nationwide and are sanctioned by various dioceses around the country - teaching what? Watered down versions of the Truth.

Specific examples of beliefs I’ve come across - being taught: there is no longer such a thing as mortal sin, missing Sunday Mass is not a big deal, the practice of homosexuality is not a sin, too much emphasis is placed on the Eucharist and the Real Presence (yes I really was taught this), everyone’s spirituality is equally valid, when are we getting women priests, etc.

God help us, literally, God help us. Once the penny dropped about my faith, I met people who were high up in our Diocese and they attend regular conferences and seminars promoting this liberal attitude. What is going on?

But more importantly what can I do about it? As regards my own back yard, I have taught a faith formation course that was totally in keeping with our beloved faith, but I feel like I need to do more. And yet the problem seems so widespread I don’t know what I can do about it. It’s like a rot in the Church, and as far as I can tell, Bishops are either not aware of this or are not putting their foot down because they don’t want to offend others - I’m not sure, but what can I / we do about it? It’s beyond a joke. It just ignores the Catechism and distorts the Truth and makes it into something man can mould to suit his own weaknesses. We need Jesus to clean the Temple again. (Rant over)

This isn’t liberal Catholicism you’re describing, but heresy. Catechists are obligated to teach in accordance with the Catechism. Pray about what you should do, and use prudence, but understand that Catechists who teach heresy have no right to do so. Understand that? No right to do so.

 

[Barbkw]

I’m also a revert. I watch a lot of EWTN programming where they’re quite open about discussing the liberalism of the 70s, 80s, 90s, etc. in the Church.

When I came back to the Church, I attended RCIA to “catch up” on my lost years.

An elderly retired nun was invited to speak with the RCIA class one evening. I happened to be near her when in conversation with another person in class, she said she thought that women would be ordained one day.

Ugh, I’m a half stupid revert and I know what Pope Benedict said about the ordination of women.

What distresses me more, is that homilies never discuss chastity, birth control, SSA, homosexual acts, Theology of the Body, etc.

What I’ve learned on these topics, has been online or through EWTN programming.

 

[Theophorus]

I am so frustrated. After re-verting to the faith, regretting my past, confessing, learning to love my faith and being filled with a desire to learn more and pass on this wonderful Truth to others, I felt profound disappointment when I discovered that liberal Catholic theology is being taught and sanctioned at all levels in our Church.

I’ve posted on this before when I came across it in one particular circumstance, an adult faith formation class run by the Diocese - of course, but since then, the Holy Spirit has brought me in touch with people who are at the highest levels and leading the Diocese I’m in, as well as others who teach nationwide and are sanctioned by various dioceses around the country - teaching what? Watered down versions of the Truth.

Specific examples of beliefs I’ve come across - being taught: there is no longer such a thing as mortal sin, missing Sunday Mass is not a big deal, the practice of homosexuality is not a sin, too much emphasis is placed on the Eucharist and the Real Presence (yes I really was taught this), everyone’s spirituality is equally valid, when are we getting women priests, etc.

God help us, literally, God help us. Once the penny dropped about my faith, I met people who were high up in our Diocese and they attend regular conferences and seminars promoting this liberal attitude. What is going on?

But more importantly what can I do about it? As regards my own back yard, I have taught a faith formation course that was totally in keeping with our beloved faith, but I feel like I need to do more. And yet the problem seems so widespread I don’t know what I can do about it. It’s like a rot in the Church, and as far as I can tell, Bishops are either not aware of this or are not putting their foot down because they don’t want to offend others - I’m not sure, but what can I / we do about it? It’s beyond a joke. It just ignores the Catechism and distorts the Truth and makes it into something man can mould to suit his own weaknesses. We need Jesus to clean the Temple again. (Rant over)

1. The first practical thing you can do is PRAY! Pray for holy Priests, pray for unafraid Christ-centred Bishops, and pray for a faithful laity.
2. Live your faith joyfully and in accordance with the teachings of the Church. Remind these liberals/heretics that the teachings of the church form a great Yes to God. Love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you. (I know from experience that this is easier said than done)

And remember the hope which never fails us is Jesus Christ, after Good Friday comes Easter Sunday. The gates of hell will not prevail against the Church although it can sometimes seem that they get pretty close.

God Bless

 

[ANNE_2]

My husband and I are both REVERTS.

Review the “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition”. It was first printed in the USA in March 2000, and has a dark green cover.
After reading keep it handy for reference.

Watch EWTN as someone else suggested.

Pray and be faithful to the Church Magisterium and Pope Benedict.

Don’t be bashful about accurately quoting the CCC, when another Catholic is wrong.
This is the only Catechism from the Church Magisterium, and all Catholics - even Bishops and Cardinals are required to adhere to it.
Admonishing sinners, Instructing the uniformed, and Counselling the doubtful are 3 of the Spiritual Works of Mercy

Here is the authority for the CCC (pg 5 #3)

" The Catechism of the Catholic Church, which I have approved… and the publication of which I order by virtue of my Apostolic Authority, is a statement of the Church’s faith and of Catholic Doctrine, attested to or illumined by Sacred Scripture, the Apostolic Tradition, and the Church’s Magisterium.
I declare it to be a sure norm for teaching the Faith and thus a valid and legitimate instrument for ecclesial communion. " - Pope John Paul II, with Imprimi Potest by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger.

 

[thirddec]

Well to be honest ; we say the Church is the body of Christ; well its is being crucified ; the so called Liberals nailing one hand and the so called Traditionalists nailing the other.

Where are the Catholics in all of this; where is Christ in all this political machinations; where is unity. Where is leadership?

 

[PJM]

=trials;7761869]I am so frustrated. After re-verting to the faith, regretting my past, confessing, learning to love my faith and being filled with a desire to learn more and pass on this wonderful Truth to others, I felt profound disappointment when I discovered that liberal Catholic theology is being taught and sanctioned at all levels in our Church.

I’ve posted on this before when I came across it in one particular circumstance, an adult faith formation class run by the Diocese - of course, but since then, the Holy Spirit has brought me in touch with people who are at the highest levels and leading the Diocese I’m in, as well as others who teach nationwide and are sanctioned by various dioceses around the country - teaching what? Watered down versions of the Truth.

Specific examples of beliefs I’ve come across - being taught: there is no longer such a thing as mortal sin, missing Sunday Mass is not a big deal, the practice of homosexuality is not a sin, too much emphasis is placed on the Eucharist and the Real Presence (yes I really was taught this), everyone’s spirituality is equally valid, when are we getting women priests, etc. (Rant over)

My dear friend in Christ;

I’d like to share with you that I’ve agreed with you for a GREAT MANY YEARS. I’d like to tell you that one get’s used to dealing in this invironment… I’m NOT and we don’t.

But don’t allow it to make you bitter. Very slowly things are turning around Pope Benedict has shuffled the Curia Department that submits condidates to the Epicopicy; and we have now for the first time in about 50 years; had and now have a very Faithful Leader of the USCCB; two terms in a row! [formally NCCB]. And the manner that God helped Archbishop Dolan get elected was amazing. Never forget that God is and remains in charge.

Do everything that you can; be pro-active in teaching and sharing our faith. Always with charity, always with foundational support; not that it will always be accepted; buy this way no-one can accuse us of “personal opinions” which have little real value.

Know and LIVE our Faith for all the World to see. And of course pray and sacrifice. Only God can heal this palgue of floundering-faith and little understanding.

There has been very little Good catehhisis in the past 50 years; and it was the same for those in Priestly formation for much of that time.

God Bless, welcome to the Forum!

Pat

 

[College_Girl]

I am going through the EXACT same thing at my “Catholic” School. Its basically the reason I joined the forums in the first place.

The best thing I’ve found is educating yourself so you make sure none of their false theology confuses you. And then I just try to be a good example of a well lived life in accordance with the church (which I fail at very often). Other wise, I’m in the same boat as you. I will pray that you can be a beacon of truth and light in your community, and please do the same for me!

 

[PJM]

=College_Girl;7762797]I am going through the EXACT same thing at my “Catholic” School. Its basically the reason I joined the forums in the first place.

The best thing I’ve found is educating yourself so you make sure none of their false theology confuses you. And then I just try to be a good example of a well lived life in accordance with the church (which I fail at very often). Other wise, I’m in the same boat as you. I will pray that you can be a beacon of truth and light in your community, and please do the same for me!

Awesome!

God Bless you!

Pat

 

[TheRealJuliane]

I’m also a revert. I watch a lot of EWTN programming where they’re quite open about discussing the liberalism of the 70s, 80s, 90s, etc. in the Church.

When I came back to the Church, I attended RCIA to “catch up” on my lost years.

An elderly retired nun was invited to speak with the RCIA class one evening. I happened to be near her when in conversation with another person in class, she said she thought that women would be ordained one day.

Ugh, I’m a half stupid revert and I know what Pope Benedict said about the ordination of women.

**What distresses me more, is that homilies never discuss chastity, birth control, SSA, homosexual acts, Theology of the Body, etc.
**
What I’ve learned on these topics, has been online or through EWTN programming.

It is political correctness within the Church. We mustn’t touch these “third rail” subjects or I guess someone’s feelings would be hurt. I got so frustrated after the last major election that I considered leaving the Church completely, but I can’t leave Jesus! I keep praying and looking for the bold religious leaders who will address these issues and revive the Church…I hope the young priests coming through seminary now will be on fire for our Church’s central tenets and will take us back to basics and away from fear of saying something incorrect.

 

[PJM]

=TheRealJuliane;7765329]It is political correctness within the Church. We mustn’t touch these “third rail” subjects or I guess someone’s feelings would be hurt. I got so frustrated after the last major election that I considered leaving the Church completely, but I can’t leave Jesus! I keep praying and looking for the bold religious leaders who will address these issues and revive the Church…I hope the young priests coming through seminary now will be on fire for our Church’s central tenets and will take us back to basics and away from fear of saying something incorrect.

THERE IS HOPE!

We have had VERY GOOD and VERY SOLID Leadership of the USCCB [formally th NCCB] for two consecutive terms. The manovering to get His Excellency Archbishop Nolan into the office; replacing Cardnal Francis George of Chicago was nearly miracoulous.

Pope Benedict has appointed at least two new members of the Bishops-search curia department BOTH of whom are SOLIDLY Catholic in every way!

The tide is slowly turning back to humble; faithful outspoken priest and Bishops. Spend some time with EWTN and you’ll see what I mean. The problem continues to be: RADICALS make the front page headlines; and the FAITHFUL may not get into print or coverage at all. BUT GOD REMAINS IN CHARGE.

We are to KNOW our faith; live it and share it. Pray for conversions; for the HS to assist all CALLED BY GOD to dedicate there lives to Him; they sure need it!

God Bless,
Pat

 

[ANNE_2]

Well to be honest ; we say the Church is the body of Christ; well its is being crucified ; the so called Liberals nailing one hand and the so called Traditionalists nailing the other.

Where are the Catholics in all of this; where is Christ in all this political machinations; where is unity. Where is leadership?

There is no such thing as a Liberal Catholic or a Conservative Catholic where Religion/Faith is concerned. There are simply those who strive to be good Catholics, and bad Catholics.

As stated by the late Cardinal John O’Conner, - “The Catholic Church is not a salad bar, you can not pick and choose what you want to believe”.

To insure that you are following the teachings of Our Lord -

1. Read your Catholic Bible;
   2, Read your “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition”, which is the only catechism from the Magisterium and contains the Doctrine (Dogma) of the Faith.
2. Remember that the Pope is only infallible in matters of Faith and Morals - not Science, politics, or anything else.
3. The USCCB is not the Church Magisterium; (we are required to follow the Magisterium not the USCCB).
4. We have an obligation to follow our own Diocese Bishop when he speaks about Faith and Morals according to the Gospel and the “CCC 2nd Ed”.

**If anyone does not know the content of the “CCC 2nd Ed” and the Bible, he/she can be easily lead astray by personal opinons that Catholics are not required to follow.**In fact we are required to follow our own conscience in accord with the Bible and the
“CCC 2nd Ed”.

" The Catechism of the Catholic Church, which I have approved…and the publication of which I order by virtue of my Apostolic Authority, is a statement of the Church’s faith and of Catholic Doctrine, attested to or illumined by Sacred Scripture, the Apostolic Tradition, and the Church’s Magisterium. I declare it to be a sure norm for teaching the Faith and thus a valid and legitimate instrument for ecclesial communion." - Pope John Paul II, with Imprimi Potest by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger. (The CCC was first published in the US in March 2000.)

 

[thirddec]

There is no such thing as a Liberal Catholic or a Conservative Catholic where Religion/Faith is concerned. There are simply those who strive to be good Catholics, and bad Catholics.

As stated by the late Cardinal John O’Conner, - “The Catholic Church is not a salad bar, you can not pick and choose what you want to believe”.

To insure that you are following the teachings of Our Lord -

1. Read your Catholic Bible;
   2, Read your “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition”, which is the only catechism from the Magisterium and contains the Doctrine (Dogma) of the Faith.
2. Remember that the Pope is only infallible in matters of Faith and Morals - not Science, politics, or anything else.
3. The USCCB is not the Church Magisterium; (we are required to follow the Magisterium not the USCCB).
4. We have an obligation to follow our own Diocese Bishop when he speaks about Faith and Morals according to the Gospel and the “CCC 2nd Ed”.

**If anyone does not know the content of the “CCC 2nd Ed” and the Bible, he/she can be easily lead astray by personal opinons that Catholics are not required to follow.**In fact we are required to follow our own conscience in accord with the Bible and the
“CCC 2nd Ed”.

" The Catechism of the Catholic Church, which I have approved…and the publication of which I order by virtue of my Apostolic Authority, is a statement of the Church’s faith and of Catholic Doctrine, attested to or illumined by Sacred Scripture, the Apostolic Tradition, and the Church’s Magisterium. I declare it to be a sure norm for teaching the Faith and thus a valid and legitimate instrument for ecclesial communion." - Pope John Paul II, with Imprimi Potest by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger. (The CCC was first published in the US in March 2000.)

Well done ANNE we need leaders with such a clear understanding and straight talking and conviction as this not inchurch politics. United we stand Divided we fall its such an old truth.

 

[The_Old_Medic]

You can pray that you become enlightened, and actually follow the teachings of, and the leadership of, our Church. That you not attempt to place your desires for what YOU consider "conformity"over those of the Church leaders. That you develop a heart that can embrace all who lead.

What makes you so certain that YOU have the answer?

Do you truly believe that the Pope, the Cardinals and the Bishops are NOT guided by the Holy Spirit?

 

[thirddec]

I do believe the Holy Spirit guides the church and in the end the church holds to the truth but there has been and still is a storm in the church caused by the spirit that revels in division and disharmony; the Catholic church has prided its self on being broad ; accomodating but Unified on everthing Important. At the moment it appears to me that groups within the Church place their agenda above the good of the church ; weakening it at the very time it faces its biggest challenge and noww more than ever we need strong leadership. The strengh of the Pope leadership is empowered by the support of his Bishops ; the strengh of the Bishops on the support of the Priests; the strengh of the Priests on the Support of the Laity. If we want unity and strength then obedience and humility is a first. Many people would appear to believe satan takes sides in church politics he doesnt he plays every side ; encouraging them to do their worst. He encourages libertarians to go to far and scandalise the church; he encourages Traditionalists to go too far and create barriers to Gods words and the souls of the needy.
The only thing satan wont promote is unity. So lets stop labeling people but rather all join together and see what are the real priorities of our faith. We can accomodate each other without compromising our core beliefs. Jesus was a Traditionalist with some very Liberal Ideas as were the apostles.

ONE HOLY APOSTOLIC CATHOLIC CHURCH

 

[trials]

You can pray that you become enlightened, and actually follow the teachings of, and the leadership of, our Church. That you not attempt to place your desires for what YOU consider "conformity"over those of the Church leaders. That you develop a heart that can embrace all who lead.

What makes you so certain that YOU have the answer?

Do you truly believe that the Pope, the Cardinals and the Bishops are NOT guided by the Holy Spirit?

Of course I believe the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit. No, I don’t believe I have all the answers, I just feel the need to be part of the answer. I am trying to be part of the answer in my own backyard, as I explained, and in my own spiritual life, but I just felt so frustrated at finding this in so many areas of the Church that I felt I needed to do more, get my voice heard or something, I don’t know.

I haven’t found this liberal theology being taught by Bishops, but I have found the Diocesan Pastoral Councils, as in the guiding force of activities in the Diocese, to be led by liberal laypeople, under the Bishop’s nose. They also are responsible for the promotion of seminars by pastoral “leaders” who are all for embracing a "“new Church” in their own words, that “leaves behind the old-fashioned mentality of mortal sin and Hell” - their own words again.

 

[JM3]

1. The USCCB is not the Church Magisterium; (we are required to follow the Magisterium not the USCCB).

Yes, it is.

vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a2.htm

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The Magisterium of the Church

85 "The task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God, whether in its written form or in the form of Tradition, has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone. Its authority in this matter is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ."47 This means that the task of interpretation has been entrusted to the bishops in communion with the successor of Peter, the Bishop of Rome.

vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/motu_proprio/documents/hf_jp-ii_motu-proprio_22071998_apostolos-suos_en.html

 

[PJM]

=JM3;7770162]Yes, it is.

vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p1s1c2a2.htm

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The Magisterium of the Church

85 "The task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God, whether in its written form or in the form of Tradition, has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone. Its authority in this matter is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ."47 This means that the task of interpretation has been entrusted to the bishops in communion with the successor of Peter, the Bishop of Rome.

Actually the person you responed to was correct.

What I think your missing here is the your quote is speaking of all of the World Wide Bishops; not just the American Bishops; who too MUST be obeyed when teaching on Faith and Morals in “communion with” [agreement with] our Pope.

FROM THE CURRENT CODE OF Canon Law

BOOK III.

THE TEACHING FUNCTION OF THE CHURCH LIBER III. DE ECCLESIAE MUNERE DOCENDI

Can. 747 §1. The Church, to which Christ the Lord has entrusted the deposit of faith so that with the assistance of the Holy Spirit it might protect the revealed truth reverently, examine it more closely, and proclaim and expound it faithfully, has the duty and innate right, independent of any human power whatsoever, to preach the gospel to all peoples, also using the means of social communication proper to it.

§2. It belongs to the Church always and everywhere to announce moral principles, even about the social order, and to render judgment concerning any human affairs insofar as the fundamental rights of the human person or the salvation of souls requires it.

Can. 748 §1. All persons are bound to seek the truth in those things which regard God and his Church and by virtue of divine law are bound by the obligation and possess the right of embracing and observing the truth which they have come to know.

Can. 749 §1. By virtue of his office, the Supreme Pontiff possesses infallibility in teaching when as the supreme pastor and teacher of all the Christian faithful, who strengthens his brothers and sisters in the faith, he proclaims by definitive act that a doctrine of faith or morals is to be held.

§2. The college of bishops also possesses infallibility in teaching when the bishops gathered together in an ecumenical council exercise the magisterium as teachers and judges of faith and morals who declare for the universal Church that a doctrine of faith or morals is to be held definitively; or when dispersed throughout the world but preserving the bond of communion among themselves and with the successor of Peter and teaching authentically together with the Roman Pontiff matters of faith or morals, they agree that a particular proposition is to be held definitively.

§3. No doctrine is understood as defined infallibly unless this is manifestly evident.

Can. 750 §1. A person must believe with divine and Catholic faith all those things contained in the word of God, written or handed on, that is, in the one deposit of faith entrusted to the Church, and at the same time proposed as divinely revealed either by the solemn magisterium of the Church or by its ordinary and universal magisterium which is manifested by the common adherence of the Christian faithful under the leadership of the sacred magisterium; therefore all are bound to avoid any doctrines whatsoever contrary to them.
§2. Each and every thing which is proposed definitively by the magisterium of the Church concerning the doctrine of faith and morals, that is, each and every thing which is required to safeguard reverently and to expound faithfully the same deposit of faith, is also to be firm-ly embraced and retained; therefore, one who rejects those propositions which are to be held definitively is opposed to the doctrine of the Catholic Church.

Can. 752 Although not an assent of faith, a religious submission of the intellect and will must be given to a doctrine which the Supreme Pontiff or the college of bishops declares concerning faith or morals when they exercise the authentic magisterium, even if they do not intend to proclaim it by definitive act; therefore, the Christian faithful are to take care to avoid those things which do not agree with it.

Can. 753 Although the bishops who are in communion with the head and members of the college, whether individually or joined together in conferences of bishops or in particular councils, do not possess infallibility in teaching, they are authentic teachers and instructors of the faith for the Christian faithful entrusted to their care; the Christian faithful are bound to adhere with religious submission of mind to the authentic magisterium of their bishops.

Can. 754 All the Christian faithful are obliged to observe the constitutions and decrees which the legitimate authority of the Church issues in order to propose doctrine and to proscribe erroneous opinions, particularly those which the Roman Pontiff or the college of bishops puts forth.
Can. 755 §1. It is above all for the entire college of bishops and the Apostolic See to foster and direct among Catholics the ecumenical movement whose purpose is the restoration among all Christians of the unity which the Church is bound to promote by the will of Christ.

§2. It is likewise for the bishops and, according to the norm of law, the conferences of bishops to promote this same unity and to impart practical norms according to the various needs and opportunities of the circumstances; they are to be attentive to the prescripts issued by the supreme authority of the Church.

 

[JM3]

vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/motu_proprio/documents/hf_jp-ii_motu-proprio_22071998_apostolos-suos_en.html

APOSTOLOS SUOS

IV

COMPLEMENTARY NORMS
REGARDING
THE CONFERENCES OF BISHOPS

Art. 1. – In order that the doctrinal declarations of the Conference of Bishops referred to in No. 22 of the present Letter may constitute authentic magisterium and be published in the name of the Conference itself, they must be unanimously approved by the Bishops who are members, or receive the recognitio of the Apostolic See if approved in plenary assembly by at least two thirds of the Bishops belonging to the Conference and having a deliberative vote.

 

[jmcrae]

But more importantly what can I do about it? As regards my own back yard, I have taught a faith formation course that was totally in keeping with our beloved faith, but I feel like I need to do more. And yet the problem seems so widespread I don’t know what I can do about it. It’s like a rot in the Church, and as far as I can tell, Bishops are either not aware of this or are not putting their foot down because they don’t want to offend others - I’m not sure, but what can I / we do about it? It’s beyond a joke. It just ignores the Catechism and distorts the Truth and makes it into something man can mould to suit his own weaknesses. We need Jesus to clean the Temple again. (Rant over)

As a lay person, there’s not a lot you can do in a direct sense, but there are lots of things you can do by way of planting and watering good seeds.

1. Pray the Rosary daily.
2. Go to daily Mass; not just on Sundays.
3. Go frequently to Confession.
4. Support orthodox ministries in your parish - if you have a Bible study, offer to buy and donate a good Bible study curriculum to the parish, such as the Jeff Cavins Bible Journey series, or anything from Scott Hahn, or any other good ones that you know of. Parishes tend not to discriminate, and if they have to buy their own, they will go with the cheapest thing they can find, which is usually some kind of liberal schlock, or even something Protestant. (I have no idea why orthodox Catholic materials cost so much money - there has to be a way to bring the price down, so that they become viable options for parishes on a budget).

Help out with Vacation Bible School, and make sure authentic Catholic teaching is brought in - even if you have to make the puppets and write the scripts yourself.

If you have a Legion of Mary, join and support it. Show up to the meetings.

If you have a Knights of Columbus (if you’re a man) or Catholic Women’s League (if you’re a woman), join and support it - and go to the meetings, and get on the Executive.

Help out with children’s catechism classes. Donate Rosaries and Brown Scapulars to all of the kids receiving First Holy Communion.

Join a Parish committee and represent it on the Parish Council.

You will still be one voice among many, but you will be seen as a hard worker, and not one of those who complains all the time but then just sits back and expects other people to do all the work.