To think leaders in RICH churches

I don't think his comments add anything to the debate. Isn't it sad that the teachings of simple wisdom of such men as Jesus of Nazareth should give rise to huge rich organisations whose main task seems to be to perpetuate themselves and ensure their own continued hierarchical structures rather than living out the message of simplicity. That maybe didn't come out right, but I am sure you know what I mean.

We visited the Vatican last year on a tour of Rome and I couldn't believe the endless rooms full of gold and artworks. If they were sold I am sure they could make huge inroads into the costs of the feeding programmes of Oxfam. I am sure some people would say that it wouldn't make a huge difference but better to light a candle than curse the darkness.

I wonder if some of them really do give much thought to their speeches. The Archbishop of Sydney has recently purchased 'Domus Australia guest house in Rome - a beautifully refurbished old religious house with 33 rooms for paying visitors, a richly restored grand chapel and organ and a 150-seat auditorium opened by Pope Benedict XVI last month - cost between $30 million and $85 million, according to different estimates.' He has been criticised for reserving a grand apartment for himself.

His Christmas speech this year was to 'remind people that they often take for granted their blessings of prosperity, peace and a good climate.

Cardinal Pell said Christmas was always a consolation to those who were down and out because the birth of Jesus showed that the poor and suffering would have pride of place in heaven.'