Fourth Sunday of Lent
Dear Parishioners,
We all continue to struggle with the clergy abuse crisis in our church. This is a difficult time. We might ask what is the root causes of the problem? One of the issues that has been discussed as a problem is the whole difficulty of clericalism in the church. Clergy have not acted like servants but have felt like they were to be served.
This Wednesday we will be showing the first half of a film called “The Keys of the Kingdom.” The film stars Gregory Peck as a priest who grew up in Scotland. The main character is named Fr. Francis Chisolm. Francis is a wonderful priest who is victimized by the sin of clericalism his whole life. He chooses to walk the path of self-sacrifice rather than the path of self-promotion.
The film has a lot to say about the true mission of the church and achieving that mission while upholding Gospel values. It also has a lot to say about ecumenism. Considering that the book the movie is based on well before Vatican II it is extraordinarily forward thinking in its handling of religious cooperation and respect. The film is an old film, but it has a timeless message. I would encourage people to see it. I saw this film when I was a teen and it encouraged me to consider a vocation. In a time when we feel like priests have not measured up and the institutional church has failed us the movie reminds us of what the true ideals are for the church life.
We will show the first half of the movie this week and the second half next week. There will be a discussion at the end of both evenings.
If you want to recapture your enthusiasm for the mission of the church, seeing this film can help restore your perspective.
Blessings,
Fr. Mark
P.S. We have presently collected $1,784,226 in pledges for Sacred Heart. Seton Catholic School has over $850,000 in pledges. Sacred Heart would like to have $3,000,000 for its needs. Keep in mind, there are still stained-glass window sponsorships available. There has been 425 households who have responded to our Today Tomorrow Together Capital Campaign. If possible, it is our goal to have a commitment from every family. Please return the cards that were sent to you as soon as you can. Thank you so much to those who have responded to our volunteers. Your generosity and commitment are deeply appreciated.