call no man father

matthew 23:1-12

Jesus spoke to the congregations at Mass and to fellow theologians, saying,
"Academic theologians and priests
have set their eyes on the chair of episcopacy.
Therefore, do and observe all the theology they tell you,
but do not follow their example.

For they preach but they do not practice.
They tie up heavy doctrines hard to carry out
and lay them on people's consciences,
but they will not lift a finger to carry them together.

All their works are performed to be tweeted.
They widen their bookshelves and lengthen their CVs.
They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor at conferences,
greetings on Facebook, and the salutation 'Father.'

As for you, do not be called 'Father.'
You have but one pastor, and you are all equals.
Call no one on earth your father;
you have but one Father in heaven.

Do not be called 'Your Excellency';
you have but one excellence, and that is Christ.

The greatest among you must be the unpaid volunteer grandmother.

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled;
but whoever humbles himself will be exalted."