(no subject)
In my journal a few weeks ago there was some fairly lighthearted discussion of what issues besides the obvious ones that come up all the time this community should probably talk about.
In that spirit, and given recent events, I have a question orignally proposed by one of my commenters - "Is World Youth Day stupid?"
Now, I think that perhaps we ought to recast it a little bit more charitably, so here goes:
What is the purpose of having a World Youth Day? Couldn't that money be better spent on the poor, or is there a legitimate pastoral concern which justifies the trouble and expense?
Does the image of Catholic young people gathered together and staring adoringly at the Pope reinforce the image that Catholics have a greater loyalty to the Vatican than their own state, and that they will do the bidding of the Pontiff? Is there a way to have WYD without perpetuating that and other stereotypes?
If you're a WYD critic, what don't you like about it? If you're a supporter, why do you think it's a valuable addition to the life of the Church?
Edit to make clear: The question about the poor does not reflect my personal opinion, but rather asks about a criticism of the event I hear a lot from both Catholics and non-Catholics.
In that spirit, and given recent events, I have a question orignally proposed by one of my commenters - "Is World Youth Day stupid?"
Now, I think that perhaps we ought to recast it a little bit more charitably, so here goes:
What is the purpose of having a World Youth Day? Couldn't that money be better spent on the poor, or is there a legitimate pastoral concern which justifies the trouble and expense?
Does the image of Catholic young people gathered together and staring adoringly at the Pope reinforce the image that Catholics have a greater loyalty to the Vatican than their own state, and that they will do the bidding of the Pontiff? Is there a way to have WYD without perpetuating that and other stereotypes?
If you're a WYD critic, what don't you like about it? If you're a supporter, why do you think it's a valuable addition to the life of the Church?
Edit to make clear: The question about the poor does not reflect my personal opinion, but rather asks about a criticism of the event I hear a lot from both Catholics and non-Catholics.