Who will feed my sheep?

Garry O'Sullivan reports that many families who attend Mass after being invited by local schools or seeking sacraments often feel ignored by parish communities.

Writing for The Irish Catholic, O'Sullivan notes an instance where a primary school invited new five-year-olds and their families to Sunday Mass. While families attended, O'Sullivan observes that no one greeted them or invited them to the refreshments waiting in the hall.

The report suggests this lack of engagement extends to other groups, such as non-practicing parents requesting baptisms for their children or couples booking churches despite not being active members. O'Sullivan highlights that these individuals often leave after being seen only briefly, rather than being welcomed into the life of the parish.