Wake Up, Catholics: The Mass Is Not a Social Hour
When did we become so passive, so willing to sit back and let the world trample over our faith without a word? Recently, we’ve seen not one but two Black Masses held in public settings in this country. Let’s call it what it is: demonic mockery, blasphemy against our God, and a blatant desecration of what we hold sacred. And what did we do? Signed a petition. That’s it.
I’m not saying petitions don’t have their place, but where’s the outrage? Where’s the righteous anger like when Jesus flipped over the tables in the temple and drove out the money changers? He wasn’t meek, and He certainly wasn’t silent. He took action because what was happening was an insult to God, and He would not stand for it.
And it’s not just Black Masses. Our sacred days and symbols are being twisted beyond recognition. Look at Halloween. Originally, it was All Hallows’ Eve, the vigil of All Saints Day—a Catholic solemnity and holy day of obligation. This day was meant to prepare our hearts, honor the saints, and remind us of the triumph of light over darkness. But now, Halloween has been twisted into something completely demonic. Instead of a solemn reminder of holiness, we are surrounded by disturbing, occult symbols, glorifications of horror, and even satanic imagery. This isn’t harmless fun; it’s a deliberate assault on what’s holy, and it’s no accident that our own sacred traditions are being undermined in the process.
Consider how other faiths respond when faced with mockery or attacks on what they hold sacred. If a culture or society attempted to trivialize or desecrate a Muslim holy day or practice, would the response be so silent? Absolutely not. And while I’m not advocating violence, we must recognize the difference: other faiths do not hesitate to protect what is sacred. They will make their opposition known. Meanwhile, Catholics? We sign a petition, maybe post a status, and move on. How did we become so afraid to defend what is holy?
We are supposed to be the Church Militant, fighting the good fight and standing up for truth. I know people are afraid of confrontation. But when Christ sees people profaning the house of God, He doesn’t shrug and walk away. He gets angry—righteously angry. So why aren’t we? We’re talking about our God being insulted, His holy sacrifice turned into a spectacle for those who revel in evil. Why aren’t we showing up, speaking up, and saying, “No, you won’t desecrate God and our faith. Not on our watch”?
It’s time to stop being polite. It’s time to stop worrying about looking extreme or offending people. The truth offends, and it should. We are Catholics, followers of Christ, and we are called to defend His name. Signing a petition and going back to business as usual isn’t cutting it anymore.
Here’s the call to action: we need to return to the tradition of absolutely no Communion in the hand. This is not just about reverence; it’s about protection. Receiving our Lord on the tongue, with proper reverence, and from a priest alone would mitigate, if not completely prevent, the chances of the Host being stolen and used for evil purposes. If we truly believe that this is Christ, why are we allowing anyone and everyone to handle Him casually? This is not just a tradition; it’s a safeguard for the holiest of holies.
And we need to stop being afraid of the consequences of taking a stand. How can we count the cost when He didn’t? Christ didn’t weigh His suffering on the Cross against what He stood to gain; He did it out of pure, unfathomable love for us. The least we can do is speak up when His name is dragged through the mud, when His very presence is stolen and desecrated. We should be willing to endure discomfort, criticism, and backlash because He endured it all for us.
So what are we going to do about it? We need to be more than just silent witnesses. We need to show up. Pray in front of these events. Speak out, write letters, make our voices heard. Show the world that Catholics will not sit quietly while our Lord is mocked. Make it clear: No, you will not desecrate God and our faith. Not without a fight. And yes, this might mean getting a little loud and making some people uncomfortable. Good. Comfort has made us complacent.
Our Church was built by people who risked their lives rather than compromise their faith. Maybe it’s time we remember that legacy. Maybe it’s time we ask ourselves if we’re willing to fight for what we believe, or if we’re content to just sign a petition and hope it all goes away.
Get angry. Get loud. Get involved. Because if we don’t stand up and defend our faith, who will? It’s time to be the Church Militant once more.