The priest and his religious authority
The lecture discusses the necessity of the priest’s continuous and humble relationship with his religious head (the bishop or metropolitan) and affirms that one of the gravest things that can harm the priest is his independence from his religious head. The priest must be connected to his head, inform him of all matters of his service and ask for his counsel and management.
Obedience and humility
Obedience is not blind obedience but obedience accompanied by humility and respect; and whoever does not possess humility cannot obey. True obedience is that you obey in what sometimes contradicts your opinion and offer respect when you discuss matters gently and politely.
Administrative and theological behavior
It is not permissible for the priest to act administratively or educationally separate from his head: whether in building or management or publishing books or inviting to events or popular teaching. Every plan should involve the religious head and not be merely for his information.
Responsibility of speech and teaching
The priest is required to ensure the correctness of his teachings before he teaches or publishes, because errors in teaching may mislead people and he becomes responsible before God. He must not criticize his head publicly or spread rumors.
Dealing with complaints and discussion
The priest has the right to discuss and request clarification, but he must observe the etiquette of dialogue and wording, and not present a complaint harshly or with the intention of sowing discord. He should present his grievance in a polite and respectful manner.
Etiquette of relations and public representation
It is not fitting for the priest to be isolated or excessively independent; he must participate in diocesan occasions and meetings and show proper courtesy and presence, and he must respect those younger than him and speak to them in a mannerly way so that he teaches them Christian manners.
Practical conclusion
The fundamental spiritual message: humble obedience and commitment to the hierarchical connection are the way to a proper, purified ministry that preserves everyone from divisions and sins and manifests the spirit of the united Church.
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