I mentioned in my post yesterday that I thought the Holy Father used a poor word-choice in speaking about catechists, saying,
“Educators of the faith,” said the Pope, “cannot run the risk of looking like some sort of clown, who is simply playing a role.”
I neglected to include the link to the whole story. (Link no longer available.)
I mentioned in one of my comments yesterday that I don’t think for a minute that the Holy Father lacks appreciation, gratitude, and respect for catechists. I just think that the use of the word clown detracted from his core message. I think that it would have been more effective to evoke the image of the actor who in Greek tradition, wore a mask, hiding his true identity. This is the meaning and origin of the word hypocrite and Jesus certainly challenged us to not be hypocrites. I think we can all relate to the notion of a gap between how we present ourselves to others and who we really are and we strive to overcome or eliminate this gap. The imagery of a clown, however, while also pointing to someone who conceals his or her true identity, suggests total frivolity and foolishness.
The Holy Father’s core message is well-taken and let’s end by focusing on that: our lives should be seamless, with no separation between how we live and the message we proclaim.
I cannot say that I disagree with what the Pope said. I don’t think I would have used the same wording, but he seems to clearly communicate that catechists cannot say one thing and act another.
As a parish catechetical leader, part of my job is to support catechist formation. To do this, I would look like a clown if I continually asked catechists for continue formation when I didn’t do the same. How can I have different expectations for them?
Similarly, children and youth can easily see through a fake, someone who says one thing at church and does another in the community. I often realize they see through others better than I do. They see the clowns that stand in front preaching one thing and doing another. A good catechist is not like this.
A good catechist has been changed by Christ and is living a life of sharing Christ with others. Their entire life, both word and deed, communicates how Christ is present in their life. It’s amazing when we see someone like that.
While I know we have many dedicated catechists that share their faith with others, I have also met some who are doing it for other reasons… I hope that through their experience they will come to encounter Christ.
Thank you for your continued reflections. I think I’ll share this with our catechists this evening at a formation session. Topic: What is our primary task?
Dave, thanks for your comments. Let me know how folks react to it.