Why Has the Practice of Inviting Others to Church Mostly Stopped


In the somewhat distant past, Popes made public statements inviting non Catholics to convert. Not a single Pope has done this for years. It is said few among either Catholics or Protestants invite friends and neighbors to their church. Probably we all agree on some of the reasons why this is not done much anymore. 

For most church goers it is uncomfortable to ask others to their church. It is seen today as kind of pushy or invasive of another's space. But there are other reasons as well. 

As the necessity of multiculturalism and critical thinking has grown, it seems obvious what was formerly a strong thread of thinking has mostly evaporated. That is the belief the soul of another person needs my particular religion. People are less sure of the heaven/hell myths and thus are not convinced others are headed to hell if they are not saved by "my" church. The link suggests even among professional clergy like priests there most likely is doubt about the absolute exclusivity of Catholicism.

To most sitting in the pews their choice of a denomination was about where their parents attended church, the baby sitting services and the general comfort of the place. It is more like their choice of a favorite ice cream and car model than about eternity. 

The Bible implores believers to "spread the gospel." It is quite accepted among historians there were various itinerant preachers going about the countryside. Perhaps a few others supported themselves by traveling around talking about something. Outside the small area people lived their entire lives in, there were not many people talking, selling and trying to persuade.

The reason inviting someone to church or bringing up your religion in a conversation is ineffective and unwanted today is that everyone is bombarded with marketing messages. The last thing they want from someone they otherwise enjoy conversations with is pressure to convert to his/her faith. Making a personal appeal for a religion is as welcome has the next telephone recorded scam or commercial message on television. 

If someone asks you about your religion, share it with the person. If they don't ask, don't bring it up.

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