Priests Are Often Failed by Parishioners!

by Letters Editor · September 2, 2018

Donnaé Stone, Port Elizabeth – Elroy Swart, in his letter “Why are many priests still a law unto themselves?”, obviously feels very strongly.

However, there are several things to consider regarding priests:

The parish has been given to the priest and is his responsibility. He probably has to answer to his bishop on this.
The priest sometimes asks for help and there are few volunteers, as some need to be “specially invited” to help with church matters.
Volunteers who actually do work for the church (to assist the priest) seem to be stuck with the job. There are people who are prepared to work and there are people prepared to let them, who have a lot to say and no input.
How many times has one heard “I will do this and I will get that and I know someone who will give” and when push comes to shove, nothing happens?
Ideally, the priest’s duty is to save the souls of his parish, and the parish council should be there to do the business side. Sometimes the priest does everything and then finds it hard to let go to helpers, many of whom have previously let him down.
PPC committee meetings have agendas and keep minutes, and should not be social events.

Also, has Mr Swart discussed his objections with his priest? Or tried to find out about all the duties involved in this day and age in “being” a priest?

It is easy to criticise, and speak out without meeting your priest face to face.

Is it because we can dish it out but can’t take it ourselves?