‘The costly tyranny of secrecy’

‘The costly tyranny of secrecy’ is the title of an article in the editorial page of ‘The Hindu’ Thiruvananthapuram edition on Friday, July 05, 2013. The title expands thus: ‘As long as the process of judicial appointments remains opaque, selection of judges on considerations other than merit will continue.’ This again is applicable to the church in the selection of priests for episcopacy, though it is claimed to be a matter of theocracy and not democracy. Presenting of a priest as bishop designate by a bishop can only be for that bishop, more than for anything else!

Merit has to be ensured more than any other considerations like personal interests and quid pro quo. The following merit criteria could be followed in picking up a candidate:

i.            Intellectual capacity: Nominated candidates ought to demonstrate (a) a high level of expertise in spiritual matters with (b) ability to quickly absorb and analyze information.

ii.          Personal qualities: ranging from (a) integrity and independence of mind, (b) sound judgment, (c) decisiveness, (d) objectivity, (e) ability and willingness to learn and develop spiritually and (f) ability to work constructively with others.

iii.        An ability to understand and deal fairly, that is, ability to treat everyone with respect and sensitivity whatever their background and willingness to listen with patience and courtesy.

iv.         Authority and communication skills: He is expected to have (a) the ability to articulate clearly and succinctly to all those involved and (b) ability to inspire respect and confidence and (c) maintain authority when challenged.

v.           Efficiency: The ability to work at speed and under pressure and to organize time effectively and come out with decisions expeditiously.

Transparency will instill confidence in people. The church deserves nothing short of authentic, honest and committed spiritual persons inspiring, motivating and challenging when necessary. The church’s future cannot be totally compromised because the bishops want to ensure their influence in perpetuity.

The winds of change sweeping the world demanding greater participation, inclusion, equity, accountability and transparency will eventually engulf the episcopacy too. The present pope and his approaches instill hope.