Clericalism is everywhere in the Christian life and perhaps not where
you might expect. It elevates certain models, vocations, or ways of
being Church in such a way as to diminish others. In 'Priesthood for all
Believers, Fr Simon Cuff argues that a radical focus on the
particularity of vocation and intentionality of living out vocation are
central tools in the Church’s tool box to stop clericalism in its
tracks. Some attempts to be less clericalist by doing away with certain
forms of ministry can, he suggests, encourage clericalism. One of the
best ways to overcome clericalism is a more intentional focus on
particular ministries and the particular ministry of the ordained.
Exploring these particular ministries afresh, grounded on Christ’s
priesthood and the importance of a diaconal commission to overcome
processes of marginalisation, this book offers a vital perspective both
for those preparing for ministry and those trying to make better sense
of the ministry they already hold.
Fr Simon Cuff is a priest within the Church of England
and currently Vicar of S. Peter de Beauvoir Town in the Diocese of
London. He was formerly Lecturer in Theology at St Mellitus College,
Fellow of the Centre for Theology and Community, and Contributing Editor
to the S. Mary Magdalen School of Theology. He is a trustee of the
refugee charity Migrants Organise and Vice Chair of a charity concerned
with financial justice, the Ecumenical Council for Corporate
Responsibility.