Ever wonder why your pastor doesn’t always make the changes you think your parish needs? On Father Simon Says, Father Richard Simon pulls back the curtain on the challenges priests face, revealing that leading a parish isn’t always as simple as being in charge.

Responding to a listener who questioned why a pastor couldn’t override a liturgical committee, Father Simon explained that while pastors have legitimate authority, parish politics, complaints, and pressure from parishioners can make exercising that authority difficult.

Father Simon recalled his own experience with letter-writing campaigns and parishioners seeking his removal. He explained how shorter pastoral assignments can discourage priests from tackling expensive repairs or controversial changes, especially when those decisions risk upsetting parishioners.

But some battles are worth fighting.

Father Simon described a five-year conflict that began when members of his parish promoted a pro-abortion march from the pulpit.

“Abortion, that’s a hill I’m willing to die on,” he declared.

Father Simon also expressed admiration for young priests managing multiple parishes, each with its own committees, responsibilities, and expectations.

Despite the difficulties, these men continue answering God’s call to serve His Church.

His message to Catholics was simple: “You know, you got to be honest with your pastor, but you got to please be kind to them.”

The next time you’re frustrated with your pastor, remember the burdens he may be carrying. Offer him patience, encouragement, and prayer. Above all, thank God for the gift of the priesthood and the Eucharist.

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