Richard Coles: 'Trying to do Christianity properly is tough. Life as a priest is rigorous and disciplined. It involves sacrifices.'

Trying to do Christianity properly is tough. Life as a priest is rigorous and disciplined. It involves sacrifices.

The quote by Richard Coles, "Trying to do Christianity properly is tough. Life as a priest is rigorous and disciplined. It involves sacrifices," encapsulates the challenges and commitments associated with living a devout Christian life. Coles highlights the fact that embracing Christianity requires dedication and sacrifice, particularly for those who choose to become priests. In simple terms, this quote stresses the difficulties and demands that come with practicing Christianity sincerely.It is undeniable that adhering to Christian principles and ideals can be an arduous journey. Christianity promotes values such as love, forgiveness, and selflessness. In order to "do Christianity properly," individuals must constantly strive to embody these virtues in their daily lives. This often means going against the grain of societal norms and expectations, which can be a challenging endeavor.Moreover, Coles draws attention to the rigorous and disciplined nature of a life as a priest. Priests are not only responsible for guiding their congregations but also for their personal spiritual growth and adherence to Christianity's teachings. They are entrusted with the task of leading by example and are expected to live lives of virtue and integrity. This requires a great deal of self-discipline and sacrifice as priests must prioritize their spiritual duties over personal desires and ambitions.In delving deeper into Coles' quote, it is intriguing to explore an unexpected philosophical concept that brings a fresh perspective to the article. One such concept is the philosophy of existentialism, which presents an intriguing counterpoint to the challenges highlighted by Coles. Existentialism emphasizes individual freedom and personal responsibility, suggesting that individuals have the power to shape their own lives and give meaning to their existence.On the surface, the demands and sacrifices associated with trying to do Christianity properly may seem contradictory to the principles of existentialism. However, upon closer examination, these two concepts can coexist harmoniously. While Christianity may require sacrifices and discipline, it also offers individuals a framework for finding purpose and meaning in their lives. In essence, by prioritizing a life of service and devotion, Christians find fulfillment and a sense of purpose that aligns with the existentialist emphasis on personal responsibility and authenticity.By comparing and contrasting the challenges of Christianity with the principles of existentialism, we uncover a thought-provoking interplay between devotion and personal freedom. Embracing Christianity may necessitate sacrifice, but it is in these sacrifices that individuals often find extraordinary fulfillment and a true sense of self.In conclusion, Richard Coles' quote sheds light on the difficulties and sacrifices associated with practicing Christianity sincerely. The journey of living a devout Christian life requires discipline, selflessness, and a willingness to make sacrifices. However, by embracing these challenges, individuals often discover a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. When explored in conjunction with the philosophy of existentialism, we see that the sacrifices demanded by Christianity are not at odds with personal freedom and responsibility but rather serve as a means to genuine self-discovery and actualization.