British supporters of the traditional Latin Mass are pointing to growing youth participation as a sign of renewed interest in the Catholic faith.
Nearly 250 pilgrims braved heavy rain to complete the annual 54-mile 27-30 August pilgrimage from London to the Marian shrine of Walsingham, while about 500 attended the closing Mass 30 August.
Joseph Shaw, chairman of the Latin Mass Society, said young Catholics are being drawn to something they find compelling and rooted in tradition.
“If we want to draw people to the Church, we have to present something attractive and distinctive, with links to a cultural tradition and artistic heritage,” he said.
Shaw added: “No one has been canvassing or knocking on doors. Instead, young people have discovered something they can aspire to and move towards.”
The pilgrimage followed a large traditionalist gathering from Paris to Chartres in May that attracted nearly 20,000 participants. Among the younger pilgrims was James Allen, who said his faith has given him “inner peace and something to live for. … I know many young Catholics who are full of hope and want to tell others how the Lord has impacted their lives.”
This could lead to “a great revival coming,” he added. The increased participation comes amid ongoing debate over Vatican restrictions on the Latin Mass and whether they should be relaxed.
