...boomers feel about priests the way some people feel about clowns...
Interesting observation. The boomers were the first generation to receive the benefits of post-secondary education being widely available throughout our society. Previously, a very small number of people were able to pursue much learning beyond attending public school in most cases, and high-school in a few. The overwhelming majority of people, lacking such preparation, looked up to the learned few, and in many cases deferred to them and accepted their wisdom without question; hence, the professional class wielded considerable power and influence in our society.
Today, it is quite possible to have a congregation whose members have taken their studies much further than the person in the pulpit offering them guidance and leadership. On a daily basis, these people wrestle with complex issues, difficult ethical dilemmas, personal and business decisions with ramifications extending far beyond themselves, as well as their own, spouse's, and family's journey through life. Naturally, they begin to resent being presented with a simple pre-packaged formula from someone who's career preparations fall considerably short of their own, and who also lives in an environment in many ways isolated from the rough and tumble of daily living.
It is quite reasonable for educated people to question the wisdom of delivering their allegiance blindly. The answers to those questions provide an explanation for the reduction in esteem certain groups in our society have enjoyed over the centuries. I see this trend continuing.
Fortunately, today, people who think freely are no longer burnt at the stake or face inquisitions.
Cheers, PW. |
