The lateTip O’Neil served an interrupted term as Speaker of the House of Representatives for 9 years, 350 days.
One of the more famous quotes attributed to him (as well as a host of infamous quotes) remains popular to this day, that is, “All politics are local”.
In other words, it doesn’t matter what a candidate’s record or words are regarding national issues, a person is elected into office on what he has done or will promise to do for the people of his or her district.
I think the same holds true for the Church in the present crisis it is facing.
True, Catholics are frustrated and upset with the stories of scandal involving Cardinals, Bishops and Priests. They are horrified by the descriptions of abuse suffered by male youngsters who were violated by homosexual Clergymen. They are anxious and eager to see concrete reforms put in place which will punish the guilty and protect the innocent.
But, for the most part, none of that affects their loyalty or devotion to their local parish.
The Church in general may be in serious difficulty, but as long as the local Pastor or Associate Pastor has not violated their trust or confidence, the faithful will continue in their commitment to the Catholic Church.
The Priesthood itself may have suffered a horrible black eye, but the folks out there will remember and be thankful that Father so and so anointed their sick parents, spouses or children; that Father married them or their sons and daughters; baptized their children or grandchildren; and was kind and respectful in serving their needs.
Of course, even these good people have a limit to the shameful and disgraceful tales being revealed at the highest levels of Church authority.
But the reason that most of the faithful showed up this weekend to celebrate Holy Mass was on account of the many thousands of faithful Priests who continue to offer them the solace and comfort of the Gospel and the Sacraments with diligence and care.
The Bishops owe their Priests a debt of gratitude and respect they have shown they are incapable of appreciating or acknowledging.
God bless our Priests and Pastors who serve God’s People humbly and untiringly.
I am so proud of them and humbled to be counted in their company as a Brother!
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