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Good morning.

Today the church remembers Saint Thomas Becket the archbishop of Canterbury who in 1170 was brutally murdered in his own cathedral by Knights of King Henry II. Born as the son of a merchant, he became a talented administrator whose skill in public service, coupled with his outstanding abilities in diplomacy led to promotion at the highest level of church and state bureaucracy. King Henry made him first Chancellor and then Archbishop.

When we consider what makes a good church leader, skills relating to worship and pastoral care are often highlighted. But Thomas had other important gifts that are sometimes overlooked. Care with the detail of administration and the ability to negotiate with others are essential for any community to flourish and the Christian church is no exception.

The impact of Thomas Becket’s murder, after which he was made a saint, illustrates both the potential and the vulnerability of those whose work leads them to cross boundaries and to work in situations of conflict and tension. He died because of disagreement and rivalry between the religious and secular establishments and competing claims of power.

Thomas’ story is one that has wonderfully human elements that many of us might be able to relate to on some level: He experienced a close friendship (in his case with the King) that turned sour. He enjoyed the pleasures of wealth and also strived to lead a holy and simple life, and like many of us he seems to have struggled with issues of personal pride and ambition.

Living God, give wisdom and vision to all engaged in administration diplomacy and public service today. We pray especially for those who work in situations of tension and conflict. Bless us all with your presence, your insight and compassion. Amen.