A New Breed of Priest; My Kind of Priest
In general, … the “John Paul priests” are less supportive than older colleagues of optional celibacy, women priests, the democratic elections of bishops and greater lay leadership, according to numerous surveys. They show less tolerance for dissent against church teachings. And they are more apt to favor greater use of Latin prayers, special vestments, bells and other traditional touches to restore a sense of sacredness to the liturgy ….
Pray that more good young men like these join the priesthood.
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Many people have predicted a culture clash between traditional priests and modern parishes, and to some extent this will probably be the case. But some of the more liberal Catholic parents that I’ve known have also been quite disappointed by a perceived lack of apostolic spirit or piety in their priests (they don’t put it that way, but they seem to be looking in that direction). I’ve heard many a comment on how priests never have to worry about losing a job! (Even if they’re caught with an altar boy, in many cases, alas.)
Even if these disaffected Catholics don’t always agree with a traditionalist priest, perhaps their dedication and love for the Church will get them rethinking their faith. “Preach the Gospel always, and when absolutely necessary, use words.”–St. Francis of Assisi.
Let’s just pray that these new priests don’t blow this opportunity by engaging in moral acts of masturbation by having simple-minded fire-and-brimstone rants at the pulpit and throwing teachings at people without trying to enage them and communicating at their level. (A pet peeve of mine!)