In the tiny (pop. 185) village of Consolation in France's Jura Mountains, Canon Pierre Bretillot (who is both priest and mayor) dedicated a new tax office last week. His prayer would have pleased Matthew, the onetime tax collector, as well as collectors of internal revenue anywhere in the world:
"We beseech thee, O Lord Almighty, master of the world, distributor of all properties, bless this house wherein shall be received and distributed the compulsory and just part of the riches of our community. Give to those who bring their taxes a spirit of detachment and sacrifice, to those who come to receive...