This is with reference to the news report 'Clericalism is whip, denounces the Pope ' ( TGE Oct 29). Pope Francis has time and again denounced the prevailing culture of clericalism in the church, which according to him is a 'thorn , a scourge and a form of worldliness that defiles and damages the face of the church'. It is essentially a disease and gross misuse of power by the clergy which can be traced back to the days of the Roman emperor Constantine, when civic privileges were given to the clergy that developed a clerical system that obscured the servant role prominent in the gospel. In this connection Pope Francis has set out a wonderful example of humility, simplicity and service during his pontificate that make him an' examplar par excellence'. Pastors accordingly are called to bear in mind that in this world, greatness is determined by how many people serve you. But in God's kingdom, greatness is determined by how many people you serve. Pastors are therefore called to be shepherds with the odour of their sheep.
