Tomorrow, Good Friday, commemorates what this High Priest has done out of love: the supreme sacrifice of His life for our salvation.
Might we too, along with the honor due our ordained ministers, give them our support and collaboration in living the dignity and duty of their state?
Can we see more clergymen beloved because of their foremost love for Christ and for the flock He entrusted to them, rather than because of their title?
Shall we put an end, in our own capacities, to careerism in clergy roles, as seen in selectiveness to assignments, unhealthy longevity in terms of office, and a subculture of "only Father has the say" in our churches?
Can we bring to the purifying light of the Gospel those clergy who condone and even abet infidelity to their promises: sexual relations of whatever kind, unjust amassing of wealth, scandalous disobedience to legitimate superior--all reflective of unbridled egoism?
Shall we pray and work together for our clergy to become more closely conformed to the Good Shepherd, Who lays down His life for His sheep?
Among many personal experiences, I am most grateful for two priests very close to my heart.
One, doing very well already in a demanding ministry in his homeland, dared to go beyond and become a missionary priest.
Another one who, despite his physical limitations, which included a delicate health situation not too long ago, continues to quietly work among the poor--an unrewarding congregation in a manner of speaking.
These two, and many others (deacons, priests and bishops), mirror to me the Priesthood of Christ.
May our adulation for them on Holy Thursday lead us to support them, walk with them on the way to Golgotha to share in Christ's sacrifice.
No comments:
Post a Comment