St. Luke in the Acts of the Apostles makes the decision of St. Paul to begin a mission in Europe a big deal. His first European convert is a successful business woman, Lydia. Her position in the community made her the natural leader for the fledging group of Christians. She was not merely offering hospitality but also claiming some authority when she challenged Paul, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home,” and she prevailed on us. Pope Francis has asked the Church to recover some of that initiative that St. Paul exhibited in trusting that leadership in the Church belongs to whomever has the gift instead of presuming that only celibate males possess the necessary charism.
MAY232022
By Church Staff
