Quotes Meaning

"And a third thing is the understanding of the Church as a community, a communion which is just a hierarchy but the people of God, whose servants are the priests and bishops."

- Hans Kung

Prominent Swiss author and theologian Hans Küng has made a substantial contribution to debates concerning the composition and organization of the Catholic Church. He frequently stresses in his writings and lectures the significance of considering the Church as more than merely a hierarchical organization. He contends that the Church ought to be viewed as a communion or community composed of all believers.

Think of the Church as a huge garden in which everyone can contribute to its upkeep and development. In this symbolic garden, priests and bishops play distinct roles that meet the needs of the community as a whole, much like gardeners tend to plants. However, Küng's vision of the Church is one in which each member plays a crucial role in promoting unity and faith, in contrast to a strictly structured botanical garden with areas set aside for various flower types.

Küng contends that although the Church needs leaders like priests and bishops to direct and manage its operations, their function shouldn't take precedence over the significance of each individual as an equal in the community. This viewpoint opposes conventional wisdom that prioritizes hierarchy over group involvement and promotes a more inclusive definition of church membership in which each person is respected for their distinct contributions.

Through his writings, Küng promotes an inclusive and diverse Church that views its structure more loosely and flexibly in order to foster spiritual development for all of its members.

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