Criticism Love commands that we honor the reputation of others. Criticism is distinct from fraternal correction Criticism is not rooted in love. Normally we avoid it if the person is present and we try to keep it secret from them. A Priest's Dilemma If a priest preaches over ten minutes, he is long-winded If his sermon is short, he did not prepare it If the parish funds are high, he is a businessman If he mentions money, he is money-mad If he visits his parishioners, he is nosy If he has fairs and bazaars, he is bleeding the people If he does not, there is no life in the parish If he takes time in confession to help and advise sinners, he takes too long If he does not, he does not care If he celebrates the liturgy in a quiet voice, he is a bore If he puts feeling into it, he is an actor If he starts Mass on time, his watch is fast If he starts late, he is holding up the people If he tries to lead the people in music, he is showing off If he does not, he does not care what Mass is like If he decorates the church, he is wasting money If he does not, he is letting it run down If he is young, he is not experienced If he is old, he ought to retire If he dies, well, there was nobody like him and there will never be his equal again! (Seen in a Sunday church bulletin) |