The Catholic Church has been historically terrible in fostering a faith community within local congregations. Sunday Mass has always been a production line. Masses at 7:30, 9:00, 10:15 and noon. We come in, do our thing, and head for the door. I know this is generalization, but I have attended and belonged to a number of churches as a result of job transfers found the exceptions few and far between.

The places I have enjoyed attending, one of which I am currently attending, works intentionally at building a community before and after Mass. And then it continues throughout the week.

It is not merely social gatherings, although that is important, its about "works". Study groups, mission groups, retreats,...all things that attempt to connect the Gospel to the life of the congregation.

When Church is seen as a mission and ministry, all generations want to belong and remain. The formation of priests must spend more time developing this within candidates.