‘People of God’ an inspiration

I REFER to the article entitled “Three Wise Men” published on July 31 relating to the intention of Irish Catholic priests to set up a forum, the purpose of which is to articulate their particular concerns — and reading between the lines, to improve their public relations.

It is quite understandable that, given the current deficit in leadership and pastoral care among the Irish Catholic hierarchy, with some exceptions, priests feel both isolated and hence the need to take some leadership. It is a welcome move.

However, the model that is being proposed is entirely problematic and will do little to lead the church in the present and into the future. Vatican II heralded a breath of fresh air that we have seen stifled since. In particular, the Avery Cardinal Dulles model of Church as “the people of God” was an opening of minds and hearts to the truth all Catholics are called to be “church”, ie the body of Christ loving and serving in the world.