The first today reminds us that there never has been a moment in the history of the church when it was perfect. We say it is one, holy catholic, and apostolic; but we have never claimed perfection. This did not however keep Paul from going to the hierarchy of the church at the time, to be sure that the gospel he was preaching was correct.
There has always been struggle within the church, because it is filled with people. Rather than making me disillusioned it only serves for me as more proof that ultimately it is the Holy Spirit who guides us, and has held us together despite our best efforts to tear ourselves apart.
The struggle can be good. It can help us to clarify what we believe. And it will probably continue until the moment when we reach perfection in heaven.
- Fr. Wayne
