Cast Out into the Deep: Attracting Young People to the Church

Cast Out into the Deep offers a heartfelt exploration of ways to attract young people into the Catholic Church.

Divided into three parts, the first includes the views of just under 100 people including Fr Peter McVerry, Alice Taylor, Eamonn Dunphy, Patsy McGarry, Mary Kenny, Fr Brian D'Arcy, Bishop Willie Walsh and Cardinal Desmond Connell on how the church needs to change if it is to be more attractive to youth. Part 2 summarises the responses in the form of 95 Theses, or ideas, which were subsequently assessed and graded by almost 500 students. The results of this comprehensive survey and the conclusions drawn are presented in Part 3.

Overall, Cast Out into the Deep provides a compelling statement about the Church's current position, and where it might need to go to ensure a successful future. Published to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Pope John Pauls visit to Ireland, Cast Out into the Deep will be of interest to anyone concerned about the future of the Catholic Church.

About the Author

Seamus Lynch is Head of Media Research at TV3. He also serves on the Vocations Ministry Group of the Presentation Brothers, and was an early participant on the Order's pioneering Give a Year to God scheme in the 1990s.