Laurent Grzybowski: Healing the Catholic Church and Proposing Solutions

At the invitation of the Bienheureux-Frédéric-Ozanam parish, Laurent Grzybowski, author of the book “Another church is possible”, published by Temps Present, recently came to Bagneux to discuss the place of the Catholic Church in the territory of the Pays de Colombey and its involvement in local life.

A few words to introduce yourself?

I live in Paris and I have four children. Singer, author, composer, performer and journalist, I am Catholic and want to be a Bringer of solutions. In 2019, following the scandals, I wrote, with Anne Guillaud, “Another Church is possible! » or 20 proposals to get out of the Catholic crisis.

Your opinion on these scandals and those that left?

I risk shocking, hurting but that’s my cash side. Being Church together means telling the truths without taboos and addressing fundamental problems. These crimes are not accidents but are due to a system that enabled them. Rather than lament, we must reform. The report of the Independent Commission on Sexual Abuse in the Church denounces and proposes solutions, as I do. I blame those who deserted even if I understand them. I want to fight from within and believe I am more legitimate than those who represent it and betray it. Those who should leave are them and not me!

What are your ideas for healing the Church?

We must stop with the absolute power of the priest and denounce sexism. He must be employed by the community, share his mission and be formed with lay men and women. Reintegrate the working, rural class and prioritize the poorest. Stop accusing morality and change views on sexuality. Stop wanting to convert. Make the liturgy understandable and create an intra-religious and convictional dialogue.