It has been a few weeks since my last blog. No excuses, maybe it was summer or whatever. So here goes.
Last week, I attended a discussion by Bishop Lawrence Persico at Holy Cross Church in Fairview, Pa. He mentioned that any question asked would be answered honestly and to the best of his ability. The topics to be covered were the abuse crisis, the clergy shortage, parish restructuring and the future of the diocese.
No need to preach on street corners — just be Christ-like.
Most of the program covered the abuse crisis and very little of the other topics. Why? Because he knew that was on minds of the audience.
As he talked, you could sense the people listening very attentively, while at the same time, admiration building for the man as he pulled no punches in his discussion. It was almost as though he was bearing the sins of corruption in the church and confessing them.
He was so Christ-like. It reminded me of Christ, suffering for all our sins. For me, it was a very spiritual moment. Here is a spiritual man who opened his heart and mind and answered any question that was offered by the people.
One of the last questions asked of him was, “What can we do as fellow Christians to help the church during this crisis?” His answer was very direct. No need to preach on street corners — just be Christ-like.
In my lifetime, I can name very few people who had an impact on me. After that night, the bishop is one. As we go through this crisis, he must not stand alone! We are members of the church and unbeknownst to us, a call to arms has been issued to us. We must answer the call and be more Christ-like. Lead by example!
Alleluia!!
A.M.D.G.
Francesco
The Pilgrimage Continues 