From Mr. Get a Grip: Frank Pavone needs to get over himself before he loses his soul and takes others with him.
Why would Father Pavone need to "get over himself" before he loses his soul?
Why would Father Pavone need to "get over himself" before he loses his soul?
I don’t think Mrs Don-o should be made to answer for me.
I am the one who said Fr. Pavone needs to get a grip. It’s a common expression, which means to dial back one’s emotional engagement in a situation, the better to consider it rationally and judiciously.
Do I know for a fact that Fr. Pavone is emotionally overwrought to a degree that has clouded his judgment? Actually, I don’t. He could be coolly engaged in irresponsible rhetoric, to cloud the judgment of others. At this time, I choose not to believe that. I believe it more charitable to believe that one has temporarily lost control of his passions, than to believe he has set out to manipulate and deceive others.
Bishop Zurek has not handled this affair blamelessly, I think most observers will agree. But he is the bishop, and does have certain rights which Fr. Pavone must respect not only in outward, technical senses, but in his heart. This is grave matter, for Fr. Pavone and for those looking to him as a moral exemplar. That’s why I say that souls are at risk.
It is a spiritual work of mercy to bear wrongs patiently. Let’s all remember that. Pass it on to your priest friends if you like.