From Titus 1:5-9 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee 6 If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
Some question whether this passage refers to elders only, or to all leaders of the church, including a pastor, priest, or bishop. Regardless, it is important that any pastor, priest, or bishop have a good and positive reputation, not have unruly children, not drink in excess, be generous and kind to others, and be faithful to the word of God. These character traits are important in all of those who love God, not just a pastor, priest, or bishop. However, it is even more important to those who hold a leadership position in the church.
God uses a pastor, priest, or bishop in order to communicate and lead His people in His path. It is important that church members respect and honor the pastor, priest, or bishop, in order that they may feel like they can learn from that person.
Saint Jean Baptiste Catholic Church continues to celebrate Vocation Awareness Sunday throughout the month of October. Vocation Awareness reminds us that the world still desperately needs healers: men and women who devote themselves to building bridges of understanding, promoting unity, restoring hope, and revealing God's tenderness and compassion by word and gestures. This mandate is not only for a pastor, priest, or bishop, but for any of Gods people who are willing to serve God by sharing Gods word and love with others.
Please join the pastor, priests, and members of
Saint Jean Baptiste Catholic Church as we pray for each other, our vocations, and that all of those who have a heart for sharing Gods love will find a way to do so during this month.
The pastor staff of Saint Jean Baptiste Catholic Church is accessible through the Parish Office, which can be contacted at 212-288-5082. The mission statement of Saint Jean Baptiste Catholic Church is:
We the people of Saint Jean Baptiste Parish, in the heart of New York City, are called to live and to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the celebration of the Eucharist, adoration, and Christian service. We strive to build a community of faith by the recognition of the God-given dignity of each person and the sacredness of human life from its beginning until its end. We collaborate freely through the use of time, talent, and treasure to be a parish of true stewardship and human development. In this way, the life of the church will be made manifest and the kingdom of God will be advanced.
