Young Catholics uneasy about future

By David Crary
Associated Press

TORONTO — Young Roman Catholics have flocked from 170 nations to pray with their frail pope — and a few even got to lunch with him yesterday. But their devotion to the pontiff hasn't ended division on other matters, such as the role of women in the church and waning interest in religion.

The 200,000 World Youth Day pilgrims, ranging in age from mid-teens to mid-30s, are among the church's most fervent adherents — to the point of preparing for an all-night vigil tonight on the fields where Pope John Paul II will celebrate a public Mass tomorrow.

Last night, pilgrims by the tens of thousands jammed several blocks of one of Toronto's broadest avenues to watch 40 actors participate in a Way of the Cross procession, re-enacting the events leading to the crucifixion of Christ. The 13-foot cross used in the ceremony had traveled through 350 communities across Canada over the past 15 months.

John Paul took a day off yesterday, remaining at his Strawberry Island retreat north of Toronto to have lunch with 14 pilgrims who were thrilled by the experience.

"It is my greatest honor in my whole life," said Shirley Tso, a 26-year-old Catholic convert from Hong Kong.

Interviews with other pilgrims revealed concern about the church's future, with most speaking of dwindling attendance at weekly Mass, especially among the young.

Samantha Smitiuch, 14, of Brantford, Ontario, said her friends found Mass boring. "They need to involve us more," she said.

Laura Muldarry, a 31-year-old civil servant from Mullingar, Ireland, said she also worried about the declining numbers of churchgoing Catholics.

"I'd like to feel the faith can continue, but I wonder if it will be as strong," she said.

Muldarry said the church would benefit from new ideas, including the possible ordination of women as priests.

"Women have a lot to offer," she said. "Why should they not have the same chance as men?"

Carrie Davis, 22, of Chanhassen, Minn., was adamant in saying the church should maintain its traditions. Neither the debate over policy changes nor the ongoing clergy sex-abuse scandals have shaken her optimism.

"Everything has it's problems," she said. "We're a community. We have to stay strong together."