EDITORIAL— Acknowledging limitations and inadequacies

“In a world so full of competition, saying “no” to what can be considered an advancement or promotion is generally frowned upon and is often seen as a sign of weakness. But there’s something noble in saying “no” to something thrust upon you, especially when you find yourself unworthy of it.”

For any priest, being appointed to a higher post by no less than the Pope would be the pinnacle of their achievement. Which is why many people were left scratching their heads after a priest declined the Pope’s assignment for him to become bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran.

Last month, Pope Leo XIV appointed Fr. Gerardo Saco, currently the administrator of the Tagbilaran diocese, as bishop of that diocese. He declined the post.

“I sincerely ask for your understanding regarding this change of heart. It comes from a deep awareness of my own human limitations and inadequacies... Please be assured of my continued commitment as a priest, to journey with you in faith in the Risen Lord, who never abandons us in moments of trial and need,” Saco said.

The Vatican has acknowledged and accepted his decision.

We laud Saco for at least recognizing what he acknowledged were his shortcomings.

In a world so full of competition, saying “no” to what can be considered an advancement or promotion is generally frowned upon and is often seen as a sign of weakness. But there’s something noble in saying “no” to something thrust upon you, especially when you find yourself unworthy of it.

We’re allowed to say that there are some things we cannot do, that there are some things we may not be capable of. Even men of the cloth. Remember that not too long ago that a Pope himself quit because he felt he was no longer able to serve that office effectively.

All of us, especially some politicians, can learn from the humility and clarity shown by Saco.

Why politicians in particular? Because the one thing priests and politicians have in common is that they’re supposed to serve people.

There are those who ran for office but who clearly had limitations and inadequacies, but they still ran anyway for whatever reasons. They should have just said “no” at the start.

Now they’re in positions where they’re in over their head and where their limitations and inadequacies clearly show; or in offices where their limitations and inadequacies cause incalculable damage.

Saco’s example should teach us that only those who are aware of what they can and cannot do should aspire for something higher.