Deacon Bill Ditewig on the “Francis Effect”

“Many people around the world have begun talking about the so-called ‘Francis Effect’, which I suppose could best be described as the resurgence of interest and participation in the Catholic Church due to the influence of Pope Francis and his vision for the church.  Especially in Europe, church leaders have noted a demonstrable increase in church attendance, and certainly the Pope’s weekly Wednesday audiences have nearly trebled in size since his election.  Here in the United States, recent studies have not yet documented such a radical increase, although a lot of us serving in parishes have certainly seen a notable increase in interest and enthusiasm.  Last night, I saw first-hand the ‘Francis Effect’ in action, right here at a bar on Fisherman’s Wharf on Monterey Bay.

“‘Theology on Tap’ is a program that’s been around quite a while now across the country, and it’s proved a durable and popular way to talk about the faith and to answer questions and concerns people have.  That has certainly been the case in the Diocese of Monterey, where for more than four years, Deacon Warren Hoy has been coordinating monthly meetings on topics ranging from a variety of social justice issues, to discussions on exorcisms, just war theory, and so on.  There is a solid core of attendees, and always fresh faces drawn by a particular topic.  In a conversation with Warren a month or so ago, he shared some frustration at finding a topic and speaker for the January gathering, and in desperation, he asked me to be the speaker.  ‘Talk about whatever you want to,’ he said.  I suggested having a conversation about Pope Francis.  That was it.  No further details, no dramatic and sexy topic: just, ‘let’s talk about Pope Francis.’  That’s how the announcements went out.

“Last night, there on the dock of the Bay, a record number of folks turned out.  Estimates ranged between 60-80 people, which for this area, is HUGE. . . .”

In a recent commentary, Deacon William T. Ditewig, Ph.D. reflected on this “Theology on Tap” experience and its effects.

To access his complete post, please visit:

Deacons Today: Servants in a Servant Church: Pope Francis: Sitting on the Dock of the Bay (31 JAN 14)

Thank you, Deacon Greg Kandra, for the tip.