London, England, Dec 3, 2007 / 12:06 pm
The Catholic Church in England and Wales has launched an initiative to bring lapsed Catholics back to church.
The 'Come Home for Christmas" campaign is spearheaded by Deacon Stephen Boulter, a father of three and a former member of the Royal Air Force who currently serves a parish in Market Rasen, Lincolnshire.
Deacon Boulter appealed to those who had not visited church for a long time. He encouraged those feeling guilt not to let their self-doubt prevent them from returning to Christian practice.
""Catholic guilt" is, of course, notorious, but we must ask ourselves where it really comes from. Certainly not from Christ, who was known for his welcome to sinners, and for unforgettable stories like the Prodigal Son returning to a lavish welcome," he said.