"Pope Laments 'Dying' Churches in West"

Hmm, I just saw this headline, and it reminded me of something that has been eating at my craw all week. In past years, the priest of the village church has always served at the host and emcee for all the festivals. This year, the village council contracted the work out for the feria to some local dj outfit. Why? Because certain people in the village did not approve of the priest's enthusiasm; he was too "animated", especially when he, heaven forbid, danced! (But how is one to dance a sevillana if not with animation?) I constantly hear churches lament how difficult it has become to keep young people involved these days. Our village, fortunate to have a young, energetic priest who can engage many of the children and youth, however, has decided to curtail his interactions with them. Interesting, though, how no one complained a few summers ago when the priest and his group of musicians played shows down on the coast to raise money for the new roof on the church. No, then his love of music was applauded. From my perspective, there was nothing inappropriate about the priest's behavior. To the contrary, I was happy to see his usually serious, although friendly, self relax and enjoy the moment. It's a pity there won't be more of them (although I'd like to think he still is popping in a CD and having a whirl in the rectory). hasta luego, mylifeinspain