On October 27 we will observe Priesthood Sunday, a time to reflect on the ministry of our parish priests.
In his first six months as the Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis has modeled for the world what it means be a parish priest. When the media dubbed the Pope “the world’s parish priest,” it was recognition of all parish priests, whose ministry best describes the openness, compassion and commitment to service to others demonstrated by the Holy Father since his election.
Like the Holy Father, priests must balance the dual roles of servant and leader. Their ministry embraces the image of Christ the presider at Eucharist and Christ the foot washer with basin and towel. They bring the love of Jesus to our life’s passages: baptism, reconciliation, marriage, ordination and finally our journey home.
The parish priests are my indispensible partners in ministry. My respect and admiration for their ministry is unbounded. I invite you to join me on Priesthood Sunday in expressing your appreciation and support for their faithful service and spiritual guidance.
Priesthood Sunday is not only an opportunity to express our gratitude for the ministry of our priests, but it is also a reminder of the need to genuinely invite and encourage sons, nephews, brothers and other good young men we know to consider a life of service to Jesus and His Church.
God’s call is easily drowned out by the din and chaos of our world. Each of us must work to ensure that His call is heard.