Parolin: the credibility of the Church arises not from power but from testimony

Cardinal Parolin in Denmark: Remembering Saint Ansgar and the Courage to Share the Good News

Here’s a breakdown of the article, summarizing the key points:

Cardinal Parolin’s Visit & Focus:

* Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, visited Copenhagen, Denmark, to commemorate the mission of Saint Ansgar, a 9th-century missionary.
* He began his visit with Vespers in the Lutheran Cathedral of Copenhagen.

Saint ansgar & the Essence of Mission:

* The core message of the visit centers on Saint Ansgar’s life and example.
* Parolin highlighted that mission stems from a personal experience of liberation and joy—specifically, the joy of forgiveness.
* Ansgar, having experienced this forgiveness, felt compelled to share that joy (“the good news”) with others.
* The focus is on the messenger – the feet that bring the good news – and the transformative impact of that news, not just the message itself.

Courage & Living the Gospel:

* Ansgar demonstrated immense courage in leaving behind familiar comforts to follow Jesus’ call to evangelize.
* His contemporaries were struck by his willingness to make arduous sacrifices for the love of Christ.
* The Gospel, as Parolin explained, doesn’t provide abstract solutions but presents a vision of human dignity.
* Ansgar lived out his Christian faith, embodying the Gospel message.

In essence, the article emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God, the courage required to share that faith, and the transformative power of the Gospel message in the life of the messenger and those they reach.

What does Cardinal Pietro Parolin mean when he says teh Church’s credibility comes from testimony rather than power?

Parolin: The Credibility of the Church Arises Not From Power But From Testimony

Cardinal Pietro parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, has consistently emphasized a crucial shift in understanding the foundation of the Catholic Church’s authority. His message, resonating throughout recent pronouncements and interviews, centers on the idea that the church’s credibility isn’t derived from worldly power, historical influence, or institutional strength, but fundamentally from the testimony of its members – their lived faith, acts of charity, and commitment to the Gospel message. This outlook represents a significant recalibration in a world increasingly skeptical of institutions and authority figures.

The Erosion of Institutional Trust & The Rise of Authentic Witness

The 21st century has witnessed a marked decline in trust towards established institutions, including religious organizations.Scandals, political polarization, and a general questioning of authority have contributed to this trend. In this climate, traditional markers of credibility – size, wealth, political connections – become liabilities rather than assets.

Parolin’s argument isn’t simply a rhetorical adjustment; it’s a pragmatic response to this reality. He suggests that the Church must lean into its core mission: to be a witness to Christ.This witness isn’t about proclaiming doctrines from a position of power, but about embodying the Gospel in daily life. The focus shifts from what the church says to how the Church lives. This concept aligns with the broader theological emphasis on martyria – bearing witness – as a central aspect of Christian faith.

What Does “Testimony” Mean in Practice?

The call for a Church built on testimony isn’t abstract. It translates into concrete actions and priorities at all levels of the Church, from the pope down to the parish priest and the lay faithful. Here are key elements:

* Authenticity and Transparency: Addressing past failings – particularly the sexual abuse crisis – with honesty and a commitment to justice is paramount. Cover-ups and defensiveness erode trust, while transparency and accountability build it.

* Service to the Marginalized: The Gospel consistently prioritizes the poor, the vulnerable, and the outcast. A Church actively engaged in social justice, advocacy for the marginalized, and practical assistance demonstrates its commitment to the core values of its faith. This includes addressing issues like poverty, migration, and environmental concerns.

* Joyful Witness: Testimony isn’t about grim duty; it’s about sharing the joy and hope found in faith. This involves fostering vibrant communities where faith is lived authentically and shared with enthusiasm.

* Personal Conversion: The call to testimony begins with individual believers. Living a life consistent with Gospel values – practicing forgiveness, compassion, and humility – is the foundation of a credible witness.

* Dialog and encounter: Engaging in respectful dialogue with those who hold different beliefs, and actively seeking to understand their perspectives, demonstrates a willingness to learn and a commitment to truth.

Historical Precedents: From the Early Church to Modern Saints

The emphasis on testimony isn’t new to Catholic thought. The early Church, lacking political power and facing persecution, relied heavily on the compelling witness of its members. The lives and martyrdom of early Christians were powerful evangelistic tools.

Throughout history, saints have exemplified this principle.Consider:

* St. Francis of Assisi: His radical poverty and embrace of the marginalized were a powerful witness to the Gospel.

* St. Teresa of Calcutta: Her tireless work with the dying and destitute demonstrated a profound commitment to serving Christ in the poor.

* Oscar Romero: The Archbishop of San Salvador, whose unwavering defense of the poor and oppressed, even in the face of death, continues to inspire.

these figures didn’t rely on institutional power; their credibility stemmed from the authenticity of their lives and their unwavering commitment to the Gospel. Their examples serve as a powerful reminder that true authority comes from being the message, not simply proclaiming it.

The French School Infestation Crisis: A Test of Credibility (October 2023)

Recent events, such as the widespread reports of bed bug infestations in French schools (as reported in October 2023), offer a microcosm of this challenge. While seemingly unrelated, the handling of this crisis – the speed of response, the transparency of interaction, and the genuine concern for the well-being of students and teachers – became a test of institutional credibility. A swift, compassionate, and effective response would demonstrate care; a slow, bureaucratic, or dismissive one would further erode trust. This illustrates how even seemingly mundane situations can impact perceptions of an institution’s integrity.

Benefits of a Testimony-Based approach

shifting the focus to testimony offers several benefits for the Church:

* increased Relevance: Authentic witness resonates with a world skeptical of institutions.

* Renewed Evangelization: A compelling witness is a powerful form of evangelization.

* Stronger Communities: Living faith together fosters stronger, more vibrant communities.

* Greater accountability: A focus on lived values encourages greater accountability at all levels.