Why Young Catholics Are Leaving the Faith (And What Actually Works) With Dr. Ed Shaefer

Episode 14: Why Young Catholics Are Leaving the Faith (And What Actually Works) With Dr. Ed Shaefer

In this eye-opening episode, hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Dr. Edward Schaefer, founder and president of Collegium College in Kansas City, Missouri. Dr. Schaefer shares his journey from 20 years at a Jesuit university to founding an authentically Catholic college and reveals groundbreaking research about the Traditional Latin Mass movement.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Birth of Collegium College

• Dr. Schaefer's departure from a Jesuit university after witnessing institutional decline
• The founding story: from dinner table conversation to reality in 2015
• Challenges faced during Traditionis Custodes and relocating from Maryland to Kansas City
• Why all Collegium students come from homeschool backgrounds, not diocesan schools

Shocking Survey Data on TLM Attendance

• Results from 500+ respondents about Traditional Latin Mass attendance
• Primary reason people attend TLM: aesthetics and beauty (not theological conviction)
• Why TLM attendees "float" between masses: convenience and distance
• The Maryland parish case study: 150 TLM attendees who didn't follow the mass when canceled

The Crisis in Catholic Retention

• 83-93% of young Catholics have stopped attending any mass
• TLM communities show 98% retention rate among 18-32 year olds
• The crucial role of fathers in spiritual leadership
• Why Pope Francis was right about theological incompatibility between the masses

Practical Solutions for Families

• The importance of Catholic education and understanding TLM theology
• Finding and committing to traditional communities
• Making necessary sacrifices for authentic Catholic formation
• Building communities that support faithful living

About Dr. Schaefer: Dr. Edward Schaefer is the founder and president of Collegium College, a traditional Catholic liberal arts college. He previously served 20 years on the faculty of a Jesuit university as choir director and professor. He is currently writing a book titled "Is the Traditional Movement Dead?" based on his extensive research into TLM attendance patterns and Catholic retention rates.

About Collegium College: Collegium College is a traditional Catholic liberal arts institution located in Kansas City, Missouri. The college serves homeschooled students seeking an authentic Catholic education rooted in tradition. More information available at the-collegium.org.

Upcoming Event: This episode was recorded before the "Securing Sacred Ground" fundraising event at Sanctus Ranch, where Dr. Schaefer served as one of the speakers alongside other distinguished guests.

Connect with RCC:

• Website: RestoringChristianCulture.org

Resources Mentioned:

• Books on Traditional Latin Mass theology and history
• Peter Kwasniewski's apologetic works on the TLM
• Survey data on Catholic retention rates
• Information about traditional religious orders and parishes