Is this another St Mary's in Exile community starting up in another Australian capital city? Emmy Silvius attended the inaugural Eucharist celebrated by former incardinated priest, Greg Reynolds in Melbourne for a group that has labelled themselves "Inclusive Catholics". This commentary sits comfortably with our series of "Exit Stories" we've been running on Tuesdays and also fits with recent discussion on our forum of people seeking to establish new communities in physical space.

A welcoming place for "Homeless Catholics"...

Greg Reynolds[1] chose the First Sunday of Advent as a fitting time to celebrate the Inaugural Mass for Inclusive Catholics. After all, Advent is a time of anticipation and expectation. It is a time to consider our inner yearnings and allow the reality of who we truly are to emerge. It allows us the space to ponder where Christ is in our lives today and what it is we deeply long for from our God. We can also ask ourselves what our role is in making God's presence tangible in our communities. The inclusiveness of this particular gathering certainly contributed to God's presence being felt by all.

Click to enlarge image

Around 120 people came from far and wide to attend this historical event at Caulfield in Melbourne. Immediately when people entered the hall there was a buzz of welcome and familiarity. For some it was as if they were coming home after having broken ties with their church community for many years. One person had described herself as a 'homeless Catholic' as she did not feel she belonged in her parish. This, I believe, is quite apt of how many Catholics are feeling today and this, then, explains why the churches are being deserted and people are seeking alternative forms of spirituality in different settings.

Many people feel distressed, disillusioned and disturbed by some of the church's teachings — particularly those relating to women, people of same sex orientation, divorcees etc. Of course, many more are outraged by how the sex abuse scandal has been handled by church authorities. Greg Reynolds believes strongly in equality for all people and following the rule of 'what would Jesus do?' As we know, Jesus did not turn anyone away, nor did he put demands or set limitations on who could or could not be part of his community. Let us never forget that Jesus' blood was shed "for you and for all" and not just for the many[2] who fit into the mould of what most church authorities define as suitable to sit at the Eucharistic table.

Greg firmly believes in blurring the distinction between clergy and laity. He is convinced this separation is exaggerated by the use of clerical collars, elaborate vestments, compulsory celibacy and restricting certain tasks to the ordained. In future, for example, he will be encouraging men and women from his community to deliver the homily. There are many capable people who have not attended a seminary, but who quite probably have studied more theology than the ordained. However, an academic background is not what is required to reflect on the lessons of life that speak to those of us in the real world. What is required is a preparedness to share insights and prod the thinking of others by being willing to ask the hard questions — for example, why is it that there are only six sacraments for women and seven for men?

As Greg pointed out, women have been discriminated against for far too long. In a previous article I have brought historical facts to light that indicate how women have held prominent and priestly roles in the earlier Church.[3] We know that the wheels of the hierarchy turn slowly, but surely it's time to acknowledge that arguments such as "Jesus was a man, so no woman can become a priest" or "Jesus only appointed male apostles so it is his will that women are excluded from ordination", as justification for denying women their right to follow their deepest calling. As we know, there are currently a few hundred Catholic women priests (mostly in the USA). Greg hopes that Inclusive Catholics will support any Catholic woman who feels called to the ordained Priesthood. It is beyond comprehension that a Church that proclaims the dignity and equality of every human being denies the equal rights of women.

A community seeking to live up to its name...

Greg Reynolds, former incardinated Roman priest but now sees himself in the "annexe" to the "offical tent". Click to enlarge image

In his homily, Greg pointed out the importance of using inclusive language: "It influences people's very identity, and when it relates to something as important as the images of God, it matters greatly." As God has been called Father for the past two centuries, it is now imperative that we call God Mother for the next two centuries; in order to bring back some balance. Greg went on to explain that because the community gathered in a hall instead of a church building, the celebration was none the less significant because it is the people that make up the Church and not bricks and mortar. Though church buildings can provide sacred spaces, they are not essential. Consider, for example, the very poor — they cannot afford buildings; the persecuted — they need to stay hidden; and loyal dissenters like this community, who are refused the usage of a church.

Greg clearly wishes for Inclusive Catholics to remain part of the Roman Catholic tradition. An essential element of being Catholic is that we are a Sacramental Church. As such, Greg is determined to retain the Sacramental Life of any community along with the Scriptural teachings. Inclusive Catholics "may well be seen as the Black Sheep or the Lost Sheep, but we are still part of the flock." As mentioned previously, Greg's focus is on truth and justice for women, gays and remarried couples. Unfortunately, these loyalties are not shared by the church authorities. As a consequence there is no more room in the 'official tent' for Greg and his community who now find themselves in the annexe.

Greg sees himself as a "loyal dissenter" as was Jesus when he cleansed the Temple. Jesus became angry when he saw how religion had become corrupted by manipulative practice — it had become more human-centred rather than God-centred. Could there indeed be a parallel here? If there is, then over time this movement could prove to be prophetic. Despite this, Greg still very much sees the Catholic Church as a potential force for unbelievable good in the world.

"Justice and Compassion are the foundations of my actions. I take comfort from the words of St Thomas Aquinas: 'I would rather be ex-communicated than forced to act outside my conscience.' My hope is that my venture will not encourage shouting matches or culture wars but will help sharpen peoples thinking and help to uncover deeper truths and greater justice. Jesus prayed and died for unity, but the Gospel also says that Jesus came not to bring peace but the sword."[4]

What the future holds for Inclusive Catholics is an unknown. At this stage Greg would like to get a Website and Blog up and running as a means of providing ongoing information about the group. As such, he is very keen to speak to anyone who will be able to assist him with the technical expertise for this. He is also keen for community members to become involved in areas of social justice, liturgy etc. Inclusive Catholics is, as the name states, all about welcoming and including every member of the community. Thus, I sincerely encourage those who currently feel excluded to knock on this particular community's door. A place has already been set for you at the table.

As Greg would say: "May God our Mother bless us all".

Emmy Silvius 30Nov2011

FURTHER INFORMATION: To obtain information regarding future events, please contact Greg directly by emailing greg.reynolds3@gmail.com or phoning 0400 534 557

FOOTNOTES:
[1] Greg Reynolds was a Catholic priest of the Melbourne Archdiocese for over 25 years. He resigned in August of this year on order to be able to minister to those who feel marginalised and alienated.
[2] As the new English translation wants us to believe.
[3] See www.catholica.com.au/gc2/occ2/059_occ2_040311.php
[4] Greg Reynolds.

IMAGE CREDITS:
Emmy Silvius provided the images that accompany this commentary.

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