Question:

Full time economic support of the Clergy is generally related to the early structural system of taxation of the faithful within the church via parishes, dioceses, metropolitans, etc. to the Pope. Each level profitted as each type of benefice functioned well, mainly through fear of personalloss. Societal structures have obviously /changed, however, and literacy/ freedom is generally universalized thus removing a major reason for such Ecclesiastical control over the masses of Christians. What do you think of shedding this present system, perfected and utterly abused during Medieval times until today, and establishing rigorous reform of the seminary system to produce a fully economically independent Clergy?

 

Answer:

Dear Mr. Allen:

I would strongly accept and support a restructuring of our clergy support system especially since it is so centrally controled. Central control is a major problem in our church and I do not forsee major shifts in change in the near future.

However, Bill, I would go much further than your question. I believe we must open the priesthood (ministerial priesthood) to all the faithful discerned for ministerial service and leadership of the People of God. This would include married and women. In such a system, it would demand that the selection and compensation of ordained clergy would have tgo be established. I would start with the models already employed by our Protestant brother and sister denominations.

I hope that I have, at least, answered your main concern.

Sincerely, Dr. Nick Mazza