Priesthood Sunday is a time to give thanks for the priests who serve our communities. Through prayer, the Sacraments and simple acts of presence, priests accompany us through some of life’s most joyful and difficult moments.
Here are seven ways priests walk with us along the journey of faith.
They welcome us into the life of faith.
At Baptism, a priest welcomes a new member into the Christian community. Whether the person being baptized is an infant or an adult, this joyful celebration reminds us that none of us travels the journey of faith alone. We become part of a community called to love God and care for one another.
They gather us around the table.
When priests celebrate the Eucharist, they bring communities together around the table of Jesus. We hear God’s Word, share in the body and blood of Christ and are strengthened to carry Christ’s love into the world.
Week after week, this shared meal reminds us who we are and sends us out to serve others.
They listen when we need mercy.
We all carry moments of regret, failure and brokenness. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, priests help us encounter the mercy of God.
Sometimes the most important gift a priest offers is a listening ear and a gentle reminder that no mistake places us beyond God’s love. Forgiveness gives us the freedom to begin again.
They celebrate life’s joyful moments.
Priests are present for many of the occasions that bring families and communities together. They bless marriages, celebrate anniversaries, welcome new members and give thanks for important milestones.
Their presence helps us recognize that God is part of our celebrations, not only our struggles. Every expression of love, commitment and new life can reveal something of God’s goodness.
They remain close when life becomes difficult.
Priests often meet people during their most vulnerable moments: in hospitals, nursing homes, funeral homes or family living rooms. They pray with those who are sick, comfort those who are grieving and sit beside people who do not know what comes next.
They may not have words that can remove the pain. Their presence, however, can remind us that God has not abandoned us.
For Passionist priests, this ministry is rooted in the Passion of Jesus. At the foot of the Cross, they seek to stand with those who suffer and help them discover signs of hope.
“A lot of people go through suffering. I think to be able to be with people in those times is important.”
Fr. E. John Hilgert, CP
They help us listen for God’s direction.
Many people turn to a priest when they are facing an important decision, questioning their purpose or trying to understand where God may be leading them.
A priest does not make those decisions for us. Instead, he can help us slow down, listen more closely and recognize the ways God is already at work in our lives. This spiritual accompaniment can help us respond to our own vocation with greater trust and courage.
They serve beside us.
Priests do not carry out the mission of the Church alone. They serve alongside laypeople, religious sisters and brothers, volunteers, families and community partners.
Together, they visit those who are lonely, welcome those seeking a spiritual home, care for people in need and work for healing within their communities. This shared service reminds us that every person has gifts to offer and a part to play in God’s work.
“Wash the feet of your people.”
P. Pat Brennan, CP
Remembering Our Priests
On Priesthood Sunday, we give thanks for priests who have celebrated with us, comforted us, listened to us and helped us recognize God’s presence.
It is also a day to remember that priests need the prayers, encouragement and friendship of the communities they serve. A short note, a kind word or an invitation to share a meal can be a meaningful expression of gratitude.
May we pray for all priests, especially those who have accompanied us along the way. May they be renewed in faith, strengthened in times of difficulty and filled with joy in their vocation.
Que la Pasión de Jesucristo esté siempre en nuestros corazones.
