The Metropolitan’s Labeling Concerned Parishioners as “Troublemakers” Is Disingenuous

January 11, 2009

Oδηγοι τυφλοι διυλιζοντες τον κωνωπα την δε καμηλον καταπινοντες
(Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. – Matthew 23:24)

Several members of our community have repeatedly asked for the Metropolitan’s help; we sought his help toward finding a resolution for the discontent which permeates our community. Instead what we received was his December 3, 2008 letter.

Please; there is no need for name-calling. Name-calling is not a persuasive argument. Only a weak argument requires name-calling to buttress an unreasonable and invalid position. The Clergy needs to take the time to learn to listen; none of us, and most especially the Clergy, should hold grudges.

We need Clergy who speak with love, even if the flock has strayed. The Prodigal Son parable provides the lesson. Those who attempt to teach us should follow their own teachings. Humility is a great beginning for consensus building.

We do not need Clergy who believe that they are in a position to pronounce an “indictment against the community.” We need bridge-builders and not a Clergy that creates further chasms in the life of the community.

It appears that no lessons were learned from his tenure in our community; neither as an assistant priest; nor as an auxiliary bishop; nor as the Metropolitan.

Enough said.

Nick J. Colessides