Apr 22 2008
When is it Time to Take a Break from Your Parish (Part 2)
Looks like that break may be coming sooner than I though. I was basically told by a “parishoner” that I should leave. I did not realize the cliquish nature of that parish until I became a member of it.
Also, since my confraternity is closely associated with that parish, I may have to give that a second thought too. I do not want to, but I may.
It is a very lonely thing to enter into a new parish and not even be noticed. This is where we, as Catholics, are not good at. We should take lessons from our evangelical brothers. Hospitality is a christian virtue. Although, hospitality is secondary to the celebration of Holy Mass, there is nothing stopping a person, on the way out, to wish them a good day.
And it would be even better if there is a foyer to do so instead of doing at the back of the church. I am very much aware of the Blessed Sacrament. I would not know how to get around that.
I will not speak entering into the church or during the Mass. This is not a time to do it. But, cliques do not bother me anymore as I am comfortable reaching out to others. But it was an issue with me many years ago. Getting rid of cliques (which is very rude) would be needed to be undone by a very good pastor. But how many pastors exist liek that? Sometimes, the priest is part of a clique which also causes bitterness and resentment. Then, there is no hope. Unless one would go beyond it and just decide to be hospitable….we must ask for the grace.