You might think that the scandal of our time is that of clerical sexual abuse and it would be hard to argue against that.
Still, I’m mindful of another Achilles heal in our church and it’s that of poor preaching. I once told a bishop and friend that I didn’t think that a man should be ordained unless he demonstrated a B or above ability to preach.
I’d take a B any day of the week. Sadly, on most days, it’s more like a C or a D.
Granted, this is not why we attend Mass. And, before you say it, “Mass isn’t entertainment”. I know, I get it.
Still, that should not take us off the hook and justify lectors who bungle words, cantors that sing too high for even an angel to join in or, wait for it, deacons and priests who can’t give decent homilies.
My children, weekly I’m afraid, remind me of this. The routine typically features a bit of Mass-postgame in the car with my teens complaining about the homily and me putting a soft edge on the conversation.
Still, in my heart, I know that they are right. Why, after years of seminary training can’t more men communicate clearly, succinctly and with a message of hope?
As a communicator of many years, I don’t get it. It’s simply not difficult to offer something of value, thoughtfulness and authenticity in a 2-5 minute message. I’m certainly not saying that it’s easy to preach. What I am saying is that if a man cannot do so well, it would be better to skip the homily. For the sake of the people…
So what can you do?
Well, we can be praying for our priests and deacons. Having taught deacons in the classroom, I can attest that they don’t receive nearly enough instruction on preaching. They are human and for some, preaching might be something they find difficult. Second, you can read the Mass readings on your own before you get to church. Third, when you get a chance, share with your local Bishop the need to good, holy men who can also preach well. Fourth, when you get a moment, send a charitable email to a deacon or priest with some feedback about their homily. Remember, be charitable.
I’m heading off to Mass, right after I take my own medicine and read today’s Gospel reading.
Still, I’m mindful of another Achilles heal in our church and it’s that of poor preaching. I once told a bishop and friend that I didn’t think that a man should be ordained unless he demonstrated a B or above ability to preach.
I’d take a B any day of the week. Sadly, on most days, it’s more like a C or a D.
Granted, this is not why we attend Mass. And, before you say it, “Mass isn’t entertainment”. I know, I get it.
Still, that should not take us off the hook and justify lectors who bungle words, cantors that sing too high for even an angel to join in or, wait for it, deacons and priests who can’t give decent homilies.
My children, weekly I’m afraid, remind me of this. The routine typically features a bit of Mass-postgame in the car with my teens complaining about the homily and me putting a soft edge on the conversation.
Still, in my heart, I know that they are right. Why, after years of seminary training can’t more men communicate clearly, succinctly and with a message of hope?
As a communicator of many years, I don’t get it. It’s simply not difficult to offer something of value, thoughtfulness and authenticity in a 2-5 minute message. I’m certainly not saying that it’s easy to preach. What I am saying is that if a man cannot do so well, it would be better to skip the homily. For the sake of the people…
So what can you do?
Well, we can be praying for our priests and deacons. Having taught deacons in the classroom, I can attest that they don’t receive nearly enough instruction on preaching. They are human and for some, preaching might be something they find difficult. Second, you can read the Mass readings on your own before you get to church. Third, when you get a chance, share with your local Bishop the need to good, holy men who can also preach well. Fourth, when you get a moment, send a charitable email to a deacon or priest with some feedback about their homily. Remember, be charitable.
I’m heading off to Mass, right after I take my own medicine and read today’s Gospel reading.