The French have a great, history and culture. French art, literature, cuisine etc. have enriched the western world immeasurably. But alas, it is t he French themselves that many Americans find irritating. Their perceived arrogance, air of superiority, ingratitude towards others for small gestures that they seem to take as their due. General snootiness and perpetual sneer. Their unfathomable love for Jerry Lewis Now, I said perceived These may all be judgmental generalizations by we "Ugly Americans". (hope at least some of you get the reference there) which may be totally unwarranted.
I, too, see the need for a priest to engage help to do those mundane chores that would take away from his priestly duties. I think laity that volunteer for these tasks are a real blessing for everyone concerned. Especially those who take care of the necessary yet unseen, seemingly trivial details that few would think of. Drivers deserve halos, in my opinion. ( Fathers, I have driven behind some of you, and your Guardian Angel is wearing a crash helmet. It is a wonder some of you ever get to your assigned chapels. I can only think the Society trains its priests on the Autobahn during Oktoberfest Maybe its all that wine.) They give up so much time, and often comfort, in order to help make sure a priest can provide Mass and Sick Calls to the faithful. Thank you so much.
But, some of these priests we are discussing not only want the respect due to their Priesthood, but the high life a la Cardinal Dolan. Soirees and entertainments by the wealthiest amongst their parish. Little time for the rest. They seem to demand not only respect but obsequiousness in return for the brief individual attention a parishioner might require. Ah, and not to forget the obligatory envelope.
Not that some priests of other nationalities are innocent of this, or that all of the French are guilty. But evidently we Americans have a problem with what we perceive to be a lack of humility amongst those priests who have been sent to us. We are immeasurably grateful for the Priests and the Sacraments he administers. Most of us will gladly offer him the best of what ever we have in thanks. But we balk at the boot-licking. It is not in our national repertoire. If their own cultural references deem it mandatory, they are likely going to be miffed.
A priest with a butler. Not around here, please.
disclaimer: I do not speak for all Americans, only myself. Vive la France. Viva Christo Rey. God Bless America. God Save the Qu[/u]een, etc, et al[/u][/u]