Priests
The diocesan priest is called to serve the people of God, to bring them Christ’s healing love through prayer, the sacraments and by proclaiming the Word of God. He also has the great joy and privilege of making Christ present in the Eucharist. Usually he will do all this in a parish - the local Catholic community.
St Teresa of Avila once said: “Christ has no body now but yours no hands, no feet on earth but yours.” That sums up the calling of priests, to be at all times, another Christ – ‘ alter Christus’ .
Priesthood is demanding; and, to quote the late Cardinal Hume, no one can ever be truly worthy to be a priest. But the good news is that priesthood is not a human decision. It’s a calling from God, who gives His strength and His grace to those who serve him. No priest can act fully for Christ without being sustained by his own prayer-relationship with God, rooted in sacrament and scripture.
A Priest: today’s shepherd and fisherman - teaching, sanctifying and guiding the People of God through a life of ministerial service and leadership. Maybe you are being called?
Whether you're exploring your calling or just want more information about the priesthood, find out more at www.ukpriest.org - the offical website for diocesan priesthood in England and Wales
Every year, on the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Church celebrates the World Day of prayer for Priests. This year it falls on 30 May 2008. Click here to read more.