Advice given by an accomplished theologian to a junior theologian on 14 November 2008 on being a servant of the Church

None of our personal interests in academic accomplishments must compete with our service to the Church. When having to choose between being an accomplished speaker at a seminar and writing a position paper for the Church which might not even be published, choose the latter. Because a theologian is first and foremost a servant of the Church.

In regards to creativity and room for manouevring in our theological constructions, obedience is a prerequisite. Many people are of the view that freedom for theological exploration must take place in a way that defies the Church. They couldn't be more wrong. There is much room for creativity within the scheme of obedience. But obedience comes before creativity. Because a theologian is first and foremost a servant of the Church.