Building the Body of Christ

Every great structure begins with a vision and a plan in mind. Whether it is a grand cathedral or a humble home, a builder must carefully plan, gather materials, and bring together skilled workers to create something lasting and beautiful. In many ways, a priest is like a master builder, responsible for assembling and guiding the pieces of the parish community together like a giant puzzle so that it stands firm in faith and love.

No building can stand without a solid foundation. For a parish, this foundation is Christ Himself—the cornerstone of our faith (Ephesians 2:20). Everything must be built upon Him: starting with relationships and a sense of belonging and then flowing out into our teachings, our sacraments, and our mission (to be a vibrant community which actively accompanies others to encounter Jesus). A priest ensures that this foundation remains strong so that the entire community can grow in faith.

A builder does not work alone. He relies on a team of architects, engineers, and craftsmen, each with a vital role to play. Likewise, a priest must recognise the gifts within his parish team and volunteers, bringing them together to serve in complementary ways (cf: Romans 12:4-8).

• Some are called to teach (catechists, youth leaders, alpha facilitators).
• Others are called to serve (hospitality, social justice, community leaders, visitation).
• Some provide spiritual nourishment (music ministry, prayer groups).
• All are called to contribute prayerfully & financially (within ones means) for the mission.

Like a master builder, the priest ensures that each person is placed where their gifts can flourish. By empowering lay leaders and volunteers, a culture is created where everyone feels a sense of ownership in building up the parish. It’s not just the job of the priest or the master builder to do all the work, everyone has a special role to play.

A builder doesn’t just work at ground level—he steps back, climbs the scaffolding, and surveys the progress. In the same way, a priest must take a “balcony perspective,” looking beyond day-to-day operations to discern the bigger picture of parish life: Where is the parish thriving? Where are there gaps in ministry? How can the team work more effectively together? This perspective allows for strategic leadership, ensuring that all efforts align with the mission of evangelisation and pastoral care.

A wise builder doesn’t just construct for today—he builds for future generations. A priest must do the same, ensuring that leadership and ministries are sustainable. This means gradually empowering others to take on responsibilities rather than carrying all the weight alone. The goal is not just to maintain a parish but to help it grow and flourish into a missional parish, one that can go out on mission and is self-sustaining when the priest is not present or is reappointed elsewhere.

At the end of the day, the priest as the master builder is not simply overseeing programs or managing tasks—he is building up the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27). When Christ is central to all that we do, the power and love of God is made more tangible. In this way, the parish becomes a true spiritual home where all can encounter God. Let us continue to build together and get involved within the vibrant life of the Parish. With Christ as our cornerstone, we build up His body, ensuring that our parish stands as a beacon of faith, hope, and love for generations to come.

Construct well, Fr Gerard