Gemeenschap en individu zijn elkaars kracht: Het belang van geloofsgemeenschappen

Using Romano Guardini and Stanley Hauerwas, two protagonists in my research, this article reflects on the phenomenon of so-called 'new Catholics' and on the biographical fact that not only the parish but also other religious communities (like lay movements or congregations) often play an important role in the conversion of these individuals. It ends with some tentative pastoral remarks, mainly challenging pastors to be more aware that nowadays, the regular parish often lacks the strong community that is needed for the ongoing practical initiation in faith that these new Catholics need.