Protocol for Bishops
Question from Anon on 3/4/2008:

Dear Fr,

Last weekend my bishop visited my parish and I was his sacristan. I've known my bishop personally for 11 years and I have been somewhat disappointed lately. His secretary was very specific on what was to be done for mass and that is fine with me, but after mass at the reception/dinner, his secretary asked me to please get my pastor because the bishop "should not be sitting alone." He also had me switch out chairs and expected the bishop to have an assigned table. I told him the bishop could sit wherever he likes. I wanted to tell his secretary the reason the bishop is sitting alone is because the bishop has created an atmosphere where nobody feels like they can approach him. I would have been happy to dine with the bishop but I didn't know if it was appropriate.

So I have two questions.

- Is there any specific protocol for when the bishop visits?

- Should I say anything about my feelings to my pastor or the bishop's secretary?

Thank you!

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 3/4/2008:
Anon, Treat your Bishop always with courtesy and respect, always being conscious of his being a successor of the Apostles. Then treat him like a beloved uncle, with care, kindness, joviality, sharing your best stories and jokes. Most Bishops want to be loved by their own. Fill in the details yourself and situations differ from bishop to bishop. Fr Bob Levis