Glorification of clericalism?

Paul Dion sent in this reaction to the November/December issue of Today's Parish Minister. You can follow the thread of our discussion in the comments below—and add your own.

I am writing to tell you that I am deeply disturbed, not to say angered by the article "DEFINING PARISH MINISTRY" by Mark F. Fischer in the November/December issue of " Today's Parish Minister.

I quote, "Professionalism can intimidate ordinary parishioners. It can lead to the wrong conclusion that real ministry pertains to the professionals only." Stercus Taurorum and a pox upon your house! The conclusion about ministry in the Church is already in. It is conducted by people who are chosen by the priests because they know the mysteries of the rosary by heart. The lack of professionalism in the Church is the root cause of many of the problems. I could name some of them, but I would take too much of your precious time. Look around. You'll have to admit that professionalism in ministry is non-existent...OK, maybe about 20%, to be generous. This guy Mark Fischer teaches in a seminary. I can just see now what he is teaching. "Remember, you're the one with the education. You're the leader; you're the ordained one; you're the one with the magic Moses wand; don't too many professionals into your inner circle, the "little people" won't relate to them and you won't be able to control them." It's a great day for the glorification of centralized clericalism.