We minister in an area that has been predominantly Catholic (traditionally ninety plus percent). Would these people be more open to listen to us now? The likely truth is that they were nominal Catholics to start with. They inherited the label, but did little to nothing with their religion. Their lives will therefore change little to nothing as a result of giving up their membership and they are probably not looking for another church to join. One consequence of this secularization is that Biblical literacy will continue to drop. More time will need to be spent teaching basic concepts and categories for understanding the gospel. It is increasingly hard to convince people that they have actually done anything that might be considered wrong (i.e. sinful). Instead of dealing with the Catholic about the uniqueness of Biblical authority and the nature of salvation, you are now dealing with the secularist concerning even the possibility of a God who gave us both Scripture and salvation. Paul's exhortation to Timothy in 2 Tim. 2 is certainly appropriate for anyone facing these challenges.

2 Timothy 2:24-25 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.