While You Were Gone: A Handbook for Returning Catholics and Those Thinking About It, by Fr. William J. Bausch.  23rd Publications, 1994.

Bausch writes in a non-threatening manner to assist those who may be thinking about returning to the practice of the Catholic faith after an absence of some years. He notes that many changes have occurred especially after Vatican Council II, but that the basics are definitely the same. The Council was meant to reconnect Catholics to their roots while eliminating some unnecessary trappings that had been added through the years. "Let in the fresh air",  said St. John XX111.

Part  One gives the historical background and reasons for theological and ministerial changes brought about through the Council. It gives some of the reasons people want to return:
a) feeling a spiritual void in their lives
b) feeling of guilt because of being away from the sacraments
c) facing a midlife crises
d) feeling the need to commit oneself to something important

Part Two offers many reasons for the changes and lists many of the changes.  For example:
a)    Changes in the liturgy, vernacular, Eucharist under both species, priest facing the congregation, removal of Communion railing, laity involved in more of the ministries during the Mass, more frequent reception of Eucharist
b)    Community factor and vernacular are  important in the reception of the sacraments, Sacrament of the anointing is received more frequently
c)    Lay apostolate has taken on new emphasis: We are the people of God.
d)    Greater emphasis on the study of Scripture and sharing in small groups

Part Three offers the reader a brief review of what still needs to be done in the contemporary church. There are unanswered issues concerning the place of singles  and of women in the church. There are sexuality issues unanswered; there are church scandals and problems of inadequate Catholic religious education.



St. Cajetan: (1480-1557) August 7