Embracing Tradition with a Twist: A Journey of Reversion, Faith, Hip Hop, and Skateboarding

Coming back to the Catholic faith later in life, after growing up in the vibrant and diverse suburbs of Western Sydney, has been a remarkable journey of self-discovery and spiritual enrichment. Part of what we are doing at Unapologetic Catholic Gear is attempting to merge these seemingly disparate cultures, recognising that in 2024, what was once seen as lame and irrelevant is now counter-cultural and increasingly appealing to younger people.

Many young people are tired of the secular world's attempts to sell them a dead end, although MSM will not admit this. This unique blend of faith and modern culture showcases that Catholicism's essence transcends stereotypes and outward appearances.

The Intersection of Faith and Culture

In my formative years, hip-hop and the exhilarating freedom of skateboarding were the core of my identity. Growing up in Western Sydney, a place known for its multicultural tapestry and dynamic urban energy, these elements were more than just hobbies; they were a way of life. They taught me resilience, creativity, and a sense of community—values that, unbeknownst to me at the time, would resonate deeply with my Catholic faith when I eventually found my way back to it.

Reversion: A Path to Deeper Understanding

My reversion to traditional Catholicism was a profound and transformative experience sparked by my marriage. My wife was the champion of our reversion, guiding and encouraging me as we both grew in our understanding.

Regular Mass attendance, diving into the Church's rich history, and reading the Church Fathers rekindled my spiritual life and brought me back to the faith. This journey was not a rejection of my past but an integration of my life's diverse elements, enriched by the beauty of the Church's teachings and liturgy.

Breaking the Stereotypes

When people envision traditional Catholics, they often picture individuals clad in tweed jackets and suspenders, perhaps sporting a well-groomed moustache under a classic golf hat. While there's nothing wrong with people who do fit this image, it's crucial to recognise that tradition isn't confined to a specific aesthetic.

Being Catholic is about adhering to the teachings and sacraments of the Church, embracing its rich liturgical heritage, and living a life of virtue and devotion.

Faith Beyond Appearances

My journey has demonstrated that one doesn't need to fit a particular mould to be a devout Catholic. I still wear my favourite sneakers, listen to hip-hop, and watch skateboarding on TV (I'm far too old to do it anymore). These aspects of my life don't detract from my faith; they enhance it. They remind me that God's love and grace are present in every aspect of our lives, not just within the walls of a church.

Additionally, I know many faithful, solid traditionalists who don't fit the stereotype, proving that our faith transcends superficial appearances.

Embracing a Diverse Community

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Catholic Church is its universality. People from all walks of life, backgrounds, and cultures come together in worship and community.

Despite the Church being irresponsibly and incorrectly called racist and bigoted at times, just attend Mass anywhere on Sunday, and you will see all the ethnic groups of the world there, praying the same prayers to the same God.

The recent Walk with Christ in Sydney was a further testament to this reality, showcasing the rich diversity and unity within the Church. My story is just one of many that demonstrate the Church's ability to embrace diversity while maintaining the integrity of its teachings and traditions.

Conclusion

Coming back to traditional Catholicism later in life, amidst a youth of hip-hop and skateboarding in the suburbs of Western Sydney, has enriched my faith journey in unexpected ways and taught me a lot.

It's a testament to the Church's timeless relevance and capacity to integrate with the diverse tapestry of modern life.

In 2024, the Catholic faith speaks powerfully to young men who society has abandoned, vilified, and left feeling like the problem rather than the solution. The Church offers them a sense of purpose, community, and belonging that counters the negative narratives they face. As traditional Catholics, we don't all need to wear tweed jackets and suspenders; our faith is defined by our devotion, values, and love for God, not by our outward appearance. And in this, we find true freedom and joy.