If the teachings of the Gospel are sometimes difficult, that is just what we should expect from the lofty perfections to which they will lead, here and hereafter. All good things are hard, and the better they are, the harder they are, as everyone knows from every-day experience even in the natural order and world.
If wars and hate still prevail in our world, the reason is that man prefers material things and the goods of the body to spiritual things and the goods of the soul. Who can change that situation except man himself, with the help of God and the teachings of Christ?
It must be granted, therefore, on the one hand, that the teachings of the Gospel have already done wonders for mankind, and that in the comparatively short time since the coming of Christ. If, on the other hand, as we readily grant, much still remains to be done for the world, that will be accomplished in due time. There are many forces already at work to this end, one of the most powerful of which is that known as Catholic Action, that close cooperation between clergy and laity in spreading a knowledge and practice of the teachings of the Gospel.
If we would know how Catholic Action may be made most effective, the following points have been suggested for our consideration.
- If this mighty force for good is to produce its full fruits, it must first exist among the priests in each parish or rectory, being manifested by faith, zeal, industry, unity of purpose, and preaching the truths of religion.
- From priests, as leaders by words, deeds, and example, it must spread to the people.
- Among the faithful it should begin in the home, where parents and children by prayer and example should show their faith and love for God and religion.
- In church and in school, Mass, Sacraments, devotions and Catholic practice should be explained and made as attractive as possible, so as to make the faithful eager to come and assist at them.
- The faithful should be made to understand that they are sharing with their priests in all sacred functions and religious activities.
- If clergy and laity thus really love God, their neighbor, their religion, and their own souls, they will gladly do all that is here suggested and will want others to have and enjoy what they have.
Charles J. Callan, OP and John F. McConnell, MM
Spiritual Riches of the Rosary
