Sunday, February 6, 2022

It is that time of year again when we talk about VOCATIONS. There are not enough priests in the United States to meet all the needs of the people of God. And in other parts of the world it is often even worse. We need more priests.

But it is not just a question of numbers, we also need priests who are not mere caretakers and functionaries, but also priests who can shepherd the people of God and serve their needs. It is a tall order.

For myself, I can assure you that being a priest for over 40 years has been WONDERFUL. It has been a blast! If you are so fortunate as to receive the call to priesthood, or any form of consecrated ministry, you are indeed blessed. 

This is not to say that priesthood is easy. People looking for an easy life, with as little obligation and responsibility as possible, should not consider priesthood. But if someone is looking for a life with serious obligations and personal significance, and even a touch of the heroic, then priesthood, or religious life, should be considered.

Priesthood brings with it both the opportunity and the obligation to speak to the congregation and to the world the profound mystery of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ. The responsibility of being with people in the very significant and crucial moments of Marriage, Baptism, Anointing of the Sick, Funerals, and critical life junctures of illness, tragedy, and new beginnings, is very satisfying and fulfilling as it is also scary and at times overwhelming. But it is never boring! 

From my earliest years I never wanted a job where I did the same thing over and over every day. I have amply succeeded in finding a career with great variety and daily surprises and challenges. It is never boring!

Becoming a priest or nun or brother or permanent deacon requires trust: trust that the God who calls you to this vocation will not abandon you but will guide, support, strengthen and lead you in this life. That has been my experience, and I continue to count on that help. My guardian angel works overtime.

Please continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Pray that young people will respond to the challenge of heroism to serve Christ and His people in this special way.  

God bless!