Obligation to the Holy Word
and
Forum for Dispute
All ranks of the presbyterate, from Pope to newly ordained priest, receive a common
instruction, are bound to a common obligation. We are to Read the Holy Word of God, the
Bible (from Genesis to Revelation). We are to Believe what we read, Teach what we believe, and Practice what we teach. Most seminaries do not sufficiently
focus on the importance and understanding of Sacred Scripture. The peripherals, the background
of Scripture is often taught as an end in itself. Reflection or meditation on the Word of God, in
faith, is generally of secondary importance or not referred to with any seriousness.
When bishops and priests begin to accept the importance and seriousness of God's Word and
turn away from the humanistic approach of dealing with problems and concerns, they will begin to
fulfill their proper office of teaching. In order to do this effectively they must be willing to be
rejected by those who prefer to live in sin. They must accept that everyone will not be their
friend. Most clergy are unwilling to accept rejection because of what they teach.
The problems in the Church today are many, and perhaps the most serious is the inability to accept that human weakness can only be overcome by having a proper understanding of and have a willingness to teach the authentic Word of God. Breaking, or even bending God's teachings
helps no one. Such actions only prolong the agony which already exists. In the long term
problems become worse and the momentary mask of happiness turns into a full masquerade.
There needs to be established in the Church a forum available to the average priest and
parishioner to enforce that authentic teachings of the Church are being taught. At the present
time all that is readily available is recourse to the bishop. Often as not he sits on (ignores)
problems hoping they will go away. Parishioners, feeling patronized by the bishop, often transfer
to another parish they believe to be more authentic. Or, if their faith is weak they transfer to
another religion or quit going to church entirely.
Copyright © 1993-99 by Fr. David C. Trosch - All Rights Reserved
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