The Exit Door

Pope Francis has asked my church to become a 'Listening Church."  This is difficult for an organization that is run from top down.  Not much listening in such a structure.  Nor can any organization ask questions unless it is willing to listen and dialogue.  Most of what comes from the clerical branch is self-professed knowledge, dogma and rules.  And lots of young people are exiting.  It is a conundrum to ask them why they left since they are no longer around to ask.  So the church speaks to the emptying pews by emphasizing "Real Presence" in the Eucharist.  The ones in the pews already believe in Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Communion.   Or if those remaining are a bit skeptical or doubtful about such a dogma, no one bothers to ask why?  No dialogue.  You cannot evangelize if you won't listen or dialogue.  You have to listen to other person's stories.  I like hanging out with those who have gone out the door.  Great stories.