Religion in a Modern World

This century is one to be noted in religion books.   "The percentage of Catholics practicing their faith is declining almost everywhere around the globe. Almost all bishops report it, but it’s difficult to prove statistically" states Cindy Wooden of the Catholic News Service on August 12th.  I feel it's because our faith in our religious leaders has been severely tested.  Over 500 priests have been convicted of abuse but this June marked the first U.S. church official branded a felon for covering up abuse claims (AP.6/22/12).

When my daughter was born we had a hard time justifying making the decision for her to enter into a religious world where greed and child abuse was rampant among the clergy.  Her father and I felt very strongly it should be her choice to follow our faith, for her own reasons.  Over the next 13 years she learned bits and pieces through various masses and conversations. The beginning of 2012 was rough on her, yet her desire for faith came to her when she needed it most. She spent much of this year taking special religion classes at the rectory. Last week we were very proud to welcome her to the church through Baptism and this week was her first Communion. My faith continues to grow stronger when I witness the little miracles He provides, even if she's too old to let me do a special photo shoot. Special thanks to Mrs. Jaquelyn Liebold for being a strong and faithful Godmother.

1. http://www.katetparkerphotography.com/blog/2012/03/23/a-beautiful-girl-dress-and-sunset-atlanta-area-child-photography/
2.  http://cherylanncollins.com/2012/08/first-communion/
3. http://redbootsphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Angela-Communion_slider.jpg