Two Sundays ago, we were asked to support seminarians who are preparing to become priests in Mundelein Seminary and we were also reminded to pray for many and holy vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life. This Sunday is Priesthood Sunday. 

Priesthood Sunday was established to provide a way for Catholic communities to express appreciation for the priests who serve them. It is also a day to reflect upon the role of the priesthood in the life of the Church as a central one. Without priests the Holy Sacraments simply could not be conferred. When there is a serious illness or death in the family, when a wedding is announced or a baby arrives, priests are called to provide spiritual guidance. 

It is disturbing that the number of priests and ordinations in the United States has steadily declined in the past 50 years. With the shortage of vocations, and only a few new priests being ordained every year, more and more priests must serve two or more parishes. Therefore, Priesthood Sunday is a day to pray for our priests, thanking God for their courage and their service. I humbly ask that when you pray the Rosary, please remember the priest who baptized you, the priest who gave you First Communion, the bishop who confirmed you, the priest who witnessed your marriage (or will do so in the future) and pray for the priest who will anoint you at your death and preside at your funeral. Your prayers are always appreciated and needed.

God bless,
Fr. Gregg