Vital to keep the communication lines open

The Catholic News has called on Catholics to give their opinions on how the church is reaching out in this digital age and how they can improve to serve Catholics better in the column “YOUR OPINION MATTERS.”  Here’s my response to them.

 

Cheers,

 

Raymond Anthony Fernando

 

Vital to keep the communication lines open

Although the clergy have a heavy workload, it is crucial that they keep the communication lines open so that healthy relations can be built with their parishioners.

With emails, and the new digital age, a reply can be given within minutes, yet, sadly, this is rarely done.

Even in government agencies, when useful suggestions and ideas are presented that can help improve the lives of our citizens, regrettably, in most instances, responses are not forthcoming. 

As a result of which, people who make the effort to write in whether to our priests or other organizations get de-motivated.

As Christians, we are all called to be Saints so if any Catholic is seen to be working towards that goal, it will be helpful for our priests to give some encouragement. A simple note such as “Thanks for sharing.”

Another disturbing trend is that when matters are raised both at clergy level or in other organizations, it is so often viewed as ‘complaints’ when it should be seen as feedback. For constructive feedback helps to improve service levels and a reply ought to be given.

When parishioners are aware that the priests take a vested interest in the well-being of their flock, a strong bond will be built – thereby improving their relationship with God.

In closing, let us be inspired by what John Joseph Powel, a Jesuit priest and author once said:

“Honest, open communication is the only street that leads us into the real world. We then begin to grow as never before. And once we are on this road, happiness cannot be far away.” 

Sincerely,

Raymond Anthony Fernando