St. Paul, like many Christian martyrs suffered and died for the faith. Present day Christians are not exposed to such martyrdom in their churches. They can read about it, watch television shows that portray the suffering church. But what many experience within the church is hypocrisy, gossiping and the like, from priests, deacons, and other religious. Even Pope Francis recognized this insidious behaviour when he once said ‘stop gossiping’ and he was referring to the religious in the church.

The leaders in our church do not have to be martyrs, they just have to set an example of humility. They have to stop covering up for each other. There’s so much of that in the news which young people are seeing and hearing about, is it any wonder they leave, or look for a church that is authentic.

May God in his infinite mercy guide the hearts and minds of the faithful to listen attentively to His Voice.

God bless