Word to the Wise
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 - June 29 - Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles, Mass during the Day
[Acts 12:1-11; 2 Tim 4:6-8, 17-18; Matt 16:13-19]"I, Paul, am already being poured out like a libation...I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith." [2 Tim.] "And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church." [Matthew]
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 2016 STS. PETER AND PAUL, apostles
There was once a beer commercial in which characters argued about the principal virtue of the beverage: "Tastes great!" said one. "Less filling!" said the other. I do not mean to trivialize Peter and Paul, two of the greatest and most influential persons in the history of the Church, but sometimes the interpretation of their importance reminds me of that commercial. On one hand, we have what is called the "Petrine ministry" which is the work of governing the Church, represented by the Pope and bishops. On the other hand, we have the work of religious orders and lay groups who live according to the "charism" that their founders have given to them [e.g. Dominicans, the Order of Preachers, have preaching as the founding charism]. This is what is called the "Pauline ministry." (There is some recognition, even on official levels, of a "Marian" ministry, reflecting certain aspects of Mary's life in the Church.) Both ministries are essential to the preaching of the gospel.
Throughout the centuries, there has been a kind of tension between the two "ministries" in which the Petrine tries to "channel" the energies of the "Pauline" in various directions. Parents may recognize this tension if they have a talented child who needs guidance but not smothering control. A recent example of the "tension" I am referring to appears in a document just released by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith on the subject of new lay movements, Juvenescit ecclesia, in which bishops are urged to support these movements and the movements are urged to cooperate with local bishops and not create parallel churches.
Today, in the persons of Peter and Paul, we celebrate the creative tension that provides inspiration AND guidance through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Peter and Paul paid the ultimate price for their place in our hearts and Church. The least we can do is say "Thanks!" today. AMEN
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