Disagree With Your Priest? Here’s How To Respond

Michie

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
Feb 5, 2002
166,654
56,276
Woods
✟4,677,288.00
Country
United States
Faith
Catholic
Marital Status
Married
Politics
US-Others
One of the best and most challenging aspects of the Church is that it is composed entirely of humans, who are flawed and fallible, with their own perspectives, experiences, strengths, and weaknesses. As a result, disagreements between individuals can arise, and this can be particularly challenging when those disagreements are of a spiritual nature and involve one’s pastor. Priests are ordained and have received the sacramental grace of Holy Orders, so it can be tempting to assume that their word is final.

However, that assumption is not always accurate. If a priest is teaching or practicing something that is morally wrong or clearly heretical, it is essential to inform the bishop and other relevant authorities. In situations where the issue is less clearly defined, such as disagreements about church approaches to evangelism or liturgical practices, it is okay for a layperson to question a priest. Nevertheless, it is crucial to approach such conversations constructively, personally, socially, and spiritually.

3 Tips For Talking With Your Priest When You Disagree With Them

Here are three tips that can help conversations between a layperson and a priest stay positive:

Continued below.