The Church in the beginning (Level 3 laity)

I left my last set of comments with the view that the church is a kingdom on earth, and the laity are its vassals. I realize that I cannot and should not tell you what to think. I do however want to tell you to think! The only why I can see to try to do that is to ask some questions and ask you to think about the answers, or at least to think about your views relating to the questions. In the church hierarchy, the Pope is a king, the bishop is a king, the pastor is a king. And we know what god said when the ancient Jewish people asked for a king. So now we have a church over 2000 years old and at organizational maturity level 3. A church that has influenced the secular world by promoting education, promoting healthcare, promoting respect, freedom of religion and much more. So, consider the following questions about your view of the church and your place in it.

Many years ago, we had what could be considered “parish” councils. They disappeared and were replaced by “pastoral” councils. Do you have any council? Do you know who is on it, and how they got there? Do you have any idea of what and how they operate?

In the widow’s mite parable, the widow gave all that she had. Do you have any idea of how the church spends the funds it receives from the laity. Do you see any detailed financial reports of how the church (a legal non-profit spends it funds?). What would happen if you asked to see the parish check register? 

The church has employees. If you listened to Msgr. Strickland on “Go ask your Father” on Catholic Radio, you remember he said such positions should have spelled out their authority, their responsibilities, and their accountability. Do you have any idea what these are for the people employed (or even volunteer) in your church? Are basic processes for hiring followed, or did new people appear and disappear based on which God was present? Who is anyone accountable to? 

Many times, I have heard that we (the laity) are priest, prophets, and kings. Do you feel that way in your church?. If your answer is yes, you should quit reading my comments. They aren’t for you.

I could ask more questions, but that could go on forever. I will try to focus on more specific topics in my ongoing comments and hope that you ask yourselves the questions.