Held to Account 

   “If I say to the wicked, you shall surely die – and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade the wicked from their evil conduct in order to save their lives – then they shall die for their sin, but I will hold you responsible for their blood.” (Ezekiel 3: 18) 

   How I wish some of our Church leaders would take this passage to heart.  Far too many seem more like the priests, Pharisees, and Scribes of Jesus’ time rather than the servant of the Lord they are ordained to be.  They place their own status and comfort above the souls of those they are supposed to lead to God.

   I’m speaking here of those who do not preach and teach the faith they claim they have and represent.  Those who place political concerns above the gospel and teaching of Christ; who refuse to plainly state that support of abortion is a grievous sin and those who do so show should refrain from Holy Eucharist.

   Again this week Pope Francis stated his support for recognition of homosexual unions, a direct conflict with the sacramental marriage the Church supports.  The Vicar of Christ denying the clear teaching of the Church.

   “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” (Matt 18: 6).  Those who refuse to stand for the truths of Christ risk leading the faithful into sin.  At the very least they create scandal and confusion among those they are intended to lead to God.  At worst they are leading the flock with whom they are entrusted astray.

   May God have mercy on their souls! 

Lord, renew the faith in our pastors.

Fill them with Your Holy Spirit.

May they clearly and loudly proclaim Your truths.

May they be the servants of God they are called to be. 

Amen