In its place is enlightened modern thought. In our society, morality is a relative concept - an action or thought is moral if we deem it so. Feelings matter above all. God is molded in image that we consider appropriate, always full of mercy but devoid of justice. Our new philosophy is backed up by countless talk shows, books and movies wherein newest "groundbreaking" behavior is sanctioned and applauded, but never condemned.

We watch in fascination as people parade their intimacies on national television and are praised for doing so. We laud dissent from timeless moral norms, masking wrong behavior by fanciful euphemisms. Actions are blamed on everyone but ourselves. Even most heinous crimes are society’s fault, rather than that of perpetrator. The insanity defense rules courtrooms. Our children learn early that "white" lies are acceptable and "tolerance" is sacred doctrine. As Catholics immersed in such a culture, many of us have decided that going to Reconciliation is simply unnecessary. Since we do not sin, we do not need to inconvenience ourselves on Saturday. No need to feel any guilt. No need for repentance.

Oh, really? Truth must once again illuminate darkness. None less than St. John reminds us that, "If we say we are without sin, we deceive ourselves, and truth is not in us. If we acknowledge our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing." (1 Jn 1: 8-10) Our society has been blinded to raw power of temptation. We have forgotten our human inclination to give in to its allure. Doubt, feigned ignorance or simple hardness of heart still produce same ages-old result: disobedience. Adam and Eve all over again.

Yes, sin does exist. One might even say it prospers. No one is immune from its attraction. Through Christ and His Church, however, objective truth and boundless mercy exist as well. A loving and just God is still in residence. Like priest patiently waiting in confessional for his flock, Our Lord stands ready to show us way.

Vibrant Catholic life is not about new facilities, school enrollment or highest level of financial contributions. It’s not about a full calendar of parish functions. It’s about boldly living faith and committing to Christ each day. It’s about squarely facing reality of sin and seeking shelter in Him and in His Church. It’s witnessing to world by breaking from culture. Waking up to this reality means that confessional lines every Saturday will wind around church building several times. When they do, math will take care of itself.

Gary Shirley, his wife, and three children are members of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Kennesaw, Georgia, where Gary serves as catechist in the adult education program. Gary is an Archdiocese of Atlanta certified catechist (both PSR and RCIA) with 13 years teaching experience. Email him at backtothebasics@searchlogixgroup.com. Visit our website at http://www.saintcatherineofsiena.org/BackToTheBasics.htm

Listening and experiencing Randy's performance was certainly all I had expected and more... but little did I expect that I would be impacted by something in a more profound way...

Midway through performance, Randy took a break from playing to have an interview with First Family Church's Pastor, Jerry Johnston and his wife Christie. Randy proceeded to give his testimony.... of growing up as an angry, rowdy youth... often in trouble with law and under influence of mind altering substances. He was shootin' straight... he wasn't trying to fool anyone here... making you think he's is something he's not. I had heard Randy's testimony before, so that was no real shock to me. Then he shared how Lord had impacted his life. How admittedly by fate, God was using his gifts for His glory. He was actually taken back first time he heard someone call his church performances "music ministry"... he said to himself... "music ministry... is that what you call what I'm doin'?". Then he presented Gospel... quoted a few verses... nothing fancy... and I hate to say it, but it almost seemed boring and monotonous to me.

Then amazing thing happened....

Jerry Johnston took microphone, and asked if anyone would like to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. And you know what ... they did. I think it is safe to say that 75-100 people accepted Christ that night. I was awestruck. There was no fancy preaching... a simple story... and a short Gospel message. But fields were ripe for harvest. It was a reminder to me that sometimes all we need to do is ask. Some sow, and some reap harvest.

Sure it was a great concert. But it wasn't experience of music which continued to resonate with me after I left. It was impact of a soul who has given his talents to Lord for His use. Randy Travis ain't just singin' anymore... he's doin' music ministry...