Letter: Setting the record straight
Letter: Setting the record straight
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Posted by editor Tue Nov 30, 1999 00:00:00 PST
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0 responses 0 comments There often are confused notions surrounding the powers given through the Sacrament of Holdy Orders. A priest, and indeed, a Pastor has received the powers of Holy Orders, giving him the authority to represent Christ and to act in His place, in service and ministry to His people. He is mediator, by reason of his ordination, between God and the flock he tends. He is not impeccable nor is he infallible. Like the flock he tends, he too is working out his own salvation through his priesthood.
One aspect of parish life, the administration of material resources, is not something the priest receives through ordination. The administration of material resources is something the priest must learn on his own or turn over to individuals who are competent in the area of administration. Every pastor may not be an expert in administration.
In the event that a parishioner observes an abuse in the area of administration, he is morally responsible to point out the abuse and insist on rectification. The parishioner would not be serving God and following His will if he were to ignore an issue such as this.
There is no place for evil in God’s Church.
Unlike what some have stated, that parishioners who come together to discuss potential abuse are committing a sin against the Holy Spirit, such parishioners are not committing a sin at all. On the contrary, the parishioners would be committing a sin if they did not bring forth the abuse. By ignoring the responsibility to address the issue they would not be following the will of God.
Each individual must follow his conscience. If he is not clear in his conscience, he has the obligation to seek out advice and make clear his responsibility. Pastors are not solely responsible for observing and pointing out abuses of power, parishioners also take part if they fail in their responsibility.
—William G. Richardson
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