Stumbling Blocks in the Life of a Priest
This lecture addresses the concept of stumbling blocks in the life of a priest, explaining how a priest’s behavior—whether in personal life or pastoral and liturgical service—has a direct and profound impact on the people. The priest is called to be a living example, and any deviation from meekness, integrity, or holiness becomes a stumbling block that hinders the salvation of others.
First: Behavioral and Personal Stumbling Blocks
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III emphasizes that a priest is required to be meek, cheerful, and self-controlled. Anger, raising the voice, nervousness, and harsh facial expressions are all stumbling blocks because they contradict the image of the meek Christ. True strength does not come from harshness, but from balance and calmness.
Second: Stumbling Blocks Related to Money and Luxury
Preoccupation with money, asking for it directly, or pursuing visible luxury constitutes a serious stumbling block. The priest is called to asceticism and renunciation, and to refuse money in situations that may be interpreted as spiritual exploitation, because love of money weakens spiritual witness.
Third: Stumbling Blocks in Speech and Use of the Pulpit
Gossip, or settling personal scores—whether during visits or from the pulpit—turns the spiritual word into a cause of downfall. The pulpit is for the Word of God alone, not for indirect messages or personal criticism.
Fourth: Stumbling Blocks in Revealing Secrets
The priest is entrusted with people’s secrets, whether in confession or in any pastoral conversation. Revealing secrets, even indirectly, or sharing them with a spouse or friends, destroys trust and becomes a dangerous stumbling block.
Fifth: Stumbling Blocks in Authority and Pastoral Care
Control, imposing the self, favoritism, double standards, or neglecting pastoral visitation are all practices that cause people to stumble. The true priest cares for everyone with justice, without favoritism, and with a spirit of responsibility, not domination.
Sixth: Doctrinal and Liturgical Stumbling Blocks
Doctrinal or liturgical errors, lack of reverence in the sanctuary, vocal showmanship, or disrespect for the altar all constitute stumbling blocks that affect the holiness of worship. Likewise, partaking of the sacraments without clear repentance harms the priestly witness.
Conclusion
The priest is first called to correct himself, because his life is the Gospel read before the people. If he does not live repentance, truth, and meekness, how can he lead others to them? A stumbling block in the life of a priest does not affect him alone, but extends its impact to many souls.
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