So if we accept that the choice of bishop is inspired by the Holy Spirit, how do we reconcile that with needing a psych eval? I know the choice of bishop is not infallible, but what is the slippery slope. we have to evaluate if the guy is good with finances? Can lead a large organization? Has ability to schmooze with donors? I'm not against psych evals, but the more non-religious things introduced into religious life makes me pause.
Per the ex-bishop who was in the 'HR' department helping JPII pick bishops in the 80's; JPII had 3 criteria for bishops. 1. PRETTY 2. unquestioning loyalty and devotion to JPII. Christ was irrelevant. 3. ADAMENT no women priests. So, JPII scoured the planet for the dumbest, most depraved sadists he could find to make bishops. IT SHOWS!!!!!!!!!!
From what I've read, in the early Church it was the Christian community that chose from among them, their leaders based on their proven fitness as wise and holy men. I think having some sort of assembly of Catholic psychology experts is quite a good plan for assessing leaders in todays environment.
Rather than a psychological examination, what we really need is a way to evaluate the spiritual health and vigor of episcopal candidates. Too many seem to be mentally sound bureaucrats who lack any deep spiritual underpinnings. Their job is to pass on the faith, and they cannot pass on what they themselves lack.
It would seem to me that a psychological examination for a Bishop is too late. It should be more stringent for those entering the Seminary. Every Bishop is a priest first. Clearing out those who are not fit for priesthood is the first concern.
So if we accept that the choice of bishop is inspired by the Holy Spirit, how do we reconcile that with needing a psych eval? I know the choice of bishop is not infallible, but what is the slippery slope. we have to evaluate if the guy is good with finances? Can lead a large organization? Has ability to schmooze with donors? I'm not against psych evals, but the more non-religious things introduced into religious life makes me pause.
Per the ex-bishop who was in the 'HR' department helping JPII pick bishops in the 80's; JPII had 3 criteria for bishops. 1. PRETTY 2. unquestioning loyalty and devotion to JPII. Christ was irrelevant. 3. ADAMENT no women priests. So, JPII scoured the planet for the dumbest, most depraved sadists he could find to make bishops. IT SHOWS!!!!!!!!!!
From what I've read, in the early Church it was the Christian community that chose from among them, their leaders based on their proven fitness as wise and holy men. I think having some sort of assembly of Catholic psychology experts is quite a good plan for assessing leaders in todays environment.
Seems like Bp Hoeppner and my bishop have identical personalities with identical relationships with their priests.
Rather than a psychological examination, what we really need is a way to evaluate the spiritual health and vigor of episcopal candidates. Too many seem to be mentally sound bureaucrats who lack any deep spiritual underpinnings. Their job is to pass on the faith, and they cannot pass on what they themselves lack.
It would seem to me that a psychological examination for a Bishop is too late. It should be more stringent for those entering the Seminary. Every Bishop is a priest first. Clearing out those who are not fit for priesthood is the first concern.