I found St. B's when I first came to SD many years ago. I have to say that it has taken a while to write my review because I wasn't Yelping then. I was one of those guys, enjoying life in a Catholic in hibernation catatonic state if you will. Grew up in the Schools, always loved God, defended my country, and wore a scapula tied to my Dog tags just in case, and went to confession once or twice a year.
I've read some reviews, about how cliquish, bar scene oriented, dissatisfying, etc some new comers felt it has been at some point and time with St.B's, and I could agree with a "yes" and a big "NO" to many of those comments.
You see, in my humble opinion ( something I learned after having come to St. B's ) is that There are the "Holy rollers" like the girl that disliked the whole scene, and complained about it, and the Sinners like myself, that are curious about their position and why they are so Holier than thou in my eyes. It is something I wished back then I knew, and had I not walked out of the Mass early, as usual back then, I wouldn't have seen this table, and AMAZING calendar of events, with activities that not only had Holier than thou events, like bible study, and adoration, but events for the sinner like me, ( to pull us in like a swordfish to a shinny lure ) such as Beer, gatherings, wine tastings, beach volleyball, surfing etc. with young adults.
It was these events, bar oriented that got me to come in.
Yes there was a group that was super clicky, but it was only because they were in the middle, not hot, not cold, but warm with God, and trying to figure it out.
The holy rollers also attended, and made it seem even more clicky and unattractive to folks like me, but eventually I met some incredible people I am still friends with to this day that are attending my wedding.
I had questions, and was too embarrassed to ask, and the Holy folks looked down on me instead of helping me, they had yet to learn like the girl that complained, that if you are great, and good with God, it is OK to help those struggling to get there with a humble attitude. When I created the Mountain biking group, it was for folks like me, My Holy roller friends that helped me with answering my questions and humbling themselves to come to my aid with advice, and sharing with me their own struggles made it so I continued coming to the events, and eventually Bible study etc, to become a Cursillista.
Eventually I went from being one of the guys at Bars objectifying women and partying to becoming a God fearing man of Faith that understands my relationship with God much better, and now a Fiancee to a nice Catholic Girl.
I learned how not to Glorify the sin, and be able to reach out to those like me that needed it. The Holier than thou folks get it......we know you are awesome, and love God, and hate us Sinners.................. there are plenty of groups and activities for you, but the guys and girls out there lost, stumbling, struggling, and longing for a fun activity where you feel safe that you are surrounded by the same have nothing on the calendar now, AND THAT IS SAD!
I no longer live in SD, I moved back home to SF, and found St. Dominic's, and a few old SD friends that welcomed me, but I found more Holy Activities than not at the time, so it was unattractive to attend.
Eventually We made a more welcoming group, and I partook in the gatherings, and here too made like minded good friends. Now I am celebrating my last Sacrament at St. Dominic's on the 15th of October. I am grateful, and came back to St. B's to see Monsignor Callahan this past weekend to give thanks, and introduce my Fiancee to him. I never would be where I am today without that CALENDAR OF ACTIVITIES SURROUNDING DRINKING ETC. had it not been for St. Brgids, and I am sad no one explained this to the Archdiocese of San Diego. God knows how many souls like mine are still out there waiting to have something " normal " to do and the desire to have a conversation without feeling judged by a fellow Christian.
Hopefully someone in SD gets motivated, and begins to fill the calendar, hopefully People like Nancy W- don't give up on helping to find the few like me. Folks like Kathleen W. you get it, and good for you, but how about taking time to explain it to others like Jesus did. ??? That is what only a few are called to do. Get your hands dirty! That's what I was called to do eventually. Blessings to all, I hope I have not offended anyone, and If I did, reflect on the main message here, and pray for me. Thanks. read more
