Can We Keep Our Youth?

During Sister Nancy’s presentation, Interactive conversation with the audience unearthed understanding as well as discouragement. “I'm concerned for the future of the Church,” said Pat Gomez of Concord, noting that young adults are not a significant presence. Millie Feloney of Cambridge said she hopes to be an example to her grandchildren in “working it out” through VOTF.

“This is an unusual group,” said Corcoran. Supportive, she emphasized the need of young spiritual seekers for truth and integrity even if they are not in Church. “They need something to believe in,” said Corcoran.

Bouncing off the shared feelings of a realistic but compassionate audience, Corcoran said “When you trust what you know, that's when you become a real Catholic.” The obvious missing piece is what you are taught to believe. She cited Jung saying I know God; I don't have to just believe in God. The audience was told to offer support without judgment, allow stretching to “new age” concepts. She pointed out that the paranormal is part of our Catholic tradition.

Corcoran, author of the Secrets of Prayer, affirmed that mystical realities are real. She also pointed out that the young will live out a God experience through the lens of contemporary science and theology.

Corcoran offered a few final thoughts on how to help young people struggling toward spirituality: let them know that people matter and God is present, and love them.
Corcoran is an engaging and approachable personality, and her audience gathered around with thanks.