Catholicism Quote by Ronald Rolheiser
““The Church is always God hung between two thieves. Thus, no one should be surprised or shocked at how badly the church has betrayed the gospel and how much it continues to do so today. It had never done very well. Conversely, however, nobody should deny the good the church has done either. It has carried grace, produced saints, morally challenged the planet, and made, however imperfectly, a house for God to dwell in on this earth. To be connected with the church is to be associated with scoundrels, warmongers, fakes, child molesters, murderers, adulterers, and hypocrites of every description. It also, at the same time, identifies you with the saints and the finest persons of heroic soul within every time, country, race, and gender. To be a member of the church is to carry the mantle of both the worst sin and the finest heroism of soul...because the church always looks exactly as it looked at the original crucifixion, God hung among thieves.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Church and the World” by Ronald Rolheiser, 2015
The church embodies both profound good and deep corruption, reflecting humanity’s dual nature.
In simple terms: Church is both holy and flawed.
Recognize both the virtues and failings within institutions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal spiritual practice
- community involvement
- social justice work
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of the church inspire you?
- How can you contribute to its positive impact?
Focusing only on flaws can breed cynicism and disengagement.