The Gospel carries tremendous power when preached with honesty and conviction. It can therefore be disappointing when a priest preaches a homily which is simply boring.
It is sad to admit that this sometimes happens, but it is a fact recognised on numerous occasions by Pope Francis, who most recently complained about the numbers of “people asleep, chatting or going out to smoke a cigarette” during sermons.
Popping out for a ciggie is certainly not the most reverent of ways to survive a soporific sermon. It also sets a bad example to the young and to lukewarm Catholics clinging to their faith. Instead, it would be better for the bored person to remember where they are – in a house of God and in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ.
