Sacrifice

As John the Baptist said, “he must increase, but I must decrease.” The priesthood is a giving of one’s gifts, talents, time, energy, spirit, and soul to God’s people so they may come to know and live in the way of Jesus. The goal of the priesthood is not to be the central focal point of the church. Instead, it is a sacrifice of oneself for the betterment of God’s people. This sacrifice does come with rewards. Many studies of happiness have been conducted over the years. One profession consistently ranks number one for personal happiness: clergy! 

Being Real

Being a Priest is being the man that God made you to be. He wants joyful servants that can touch a wide variety of people in various aspects of their lives.  The priesthood is a way of life permeated by the threefold charge given priests at ordination to teach, to sanctify, and to govern. Priests are the cornerstone of the Catholic faith since they can be Christ to others in so many ways: 

• The representation and celebration of the Sacraments (baptism, communion, reconciliation, confirmation, matrimony, holy orders, anointing of the sick).
• Teaching people how to pray and nourishing them with the faith.
• Assisting people with their spiritual lives, challenges and issues.
• Visiting and consoling families in their time of need.
• Being a part of the parish community by attending parish events and meetings.