So the embrace of the “black sheep” label is itself disturbing . . . and unusual . . . a symbol of a “rebel” or “renegade” mindset. Then there’s the “sheep dog” part. And this is really disturbing. Even moreso than the former.The job of a sheep dog, of course, is to herd sheep—to keep them from (get this) straying from the fold and to make them go where the shepherd wants and keep them safe from danger.
Those are obviously pastoral functions—in the literal sense. A pastor (Latin, “shepherd”) employs sheep dogs to help him in his job protecting and guiding the sheep and maintaining the integrity of the flock.
By embracing the image of a sheep dog, Fr. Corapi thus announces his intention—despite his public abandonment of the priesthood—to continue in some form of pastoral ministry. It may not be priestly—he may not be celebrating the sacraments—but he still sees himself as involved in pastoral work.
Jimmy Akin gives an excellent analysis of the situation. To quit on the anniversary of his ordination! How many times over the years have we heard him relate the joy of that day. He was ordained by Pope John Paul II at the Vatican.
Something is very wrong with this scenario.
I have alot of affection for him.
I can give him some slack - these days if you are accuesed, many outside of the church will lump you into the child molester category.
That could make you lose your marbles.
I read that sheep dog analysis by Akin, I thought it was pretty far out there. The “black sheep dog” might be pretty cheesy imagery but to put all that analysis into what the words might mean(especially in this bizzarre situation) is weird. If he has been fighting liberal bishops, it makes sense.
Freegards, thanks for all the pings
The Curt Jester has a very balanced take on all this:
http://www.splendoroftruth.com/curtjester/2011/06/taking-his-marbles-and-going-home
I agree with you that something is very wrong here......very fishy and stinky.
I thot Jimmy Akin’s column was really uncharitable. So much is based on his assumptions based on things he knows so little about, from out here.
Where’s the ‘innocent until proven guilty’? Where are all the facts? So much is missing, and to fill all the blanks in with his own suppositions and innuendos — there is none of the magnanimity Christ calls us to.
Very unChristian, I found it.