Remember how people flocked to Rite II Reconciliation when it was first
introduced? But now parish priests are sometimes embarrassed by having to send
home the priests they’ve called in to assist with Rite II, for lack of
penitents. The novelty has worn off, as it surely would also with Rite
III.
It’s not fear, as Fr Consedine alleges, but magisterial wisdom which
reserves Rite III for emergencies. And it’s our natural, human preference for
novelty, accessibility and ease which explains its attractions. But Jesus calls
us to a supernatural, divine preference for the will of the Father.
Michael Otto’s piece shows clearly that we urgently need priests who
‘hasten to meet’ the latter-day Prodigal Son literally, in their parishioners’
homes, figuratively in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, and collectively by
authoritative catechesis on the benefits of the sacrament in their Sunday
homilies.
Jesus’ view of sin was always person-centred, and priests who dedicate time
daily to Jesus in contemplative prayer will automatically acquire that
view.
Come back, St John Vianney, Cure of Ars, we need you now!
