Living Catholicism: On Praying For Our Priests

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February 1, 2007

On Praying For Our Priests

In our modern times, we are faced with many temptations - material, sensual, even spiritual. It can, at times, be overwhelming. The struggles we experience, however, are not simply our own. They are tied to the very nature of the human experience. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary that we support one another in our struggles. One of the best ways to do this is through prayer. There is a great need for all of us to pray for one another.

Any one who watches TV, reads the newspaper, or surfs the Net is aware of the scandals that have rocked the priesthood over the past several years. Even priests not guilty of such horrible acts have been tried and tested. Yet scandal is not the only strain on the priesthood these days. Unfortunately, there are many priests who seem to have lost their zeal for Truth and their vocation as priests. Many become caught up in the relativism that grips our modern society, preaching "I'm okay, you're okay - let's all just get along". Some even proclaim and teach doctrines contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Others manifest their problems through consumption, be it in food or alcohol. Yet all of these things we see in our society, at times in our own homes. So what are we to do? Do simply sit back and critize our priests? Do we abandon them? When I say abandon I am speaking spiritually, it is perfectly understandable for a family or an individual to leave a parish where the priest is preaching things contrary to the teachings of the Church.

Here are a few suggestions on how we can support our priests:

(1) We should pray as families for our priests. Make it a regular habit to pray for priests everyday, specifically your parish priests and/or priests in your life. This practice will instill in your children this worthy habit.

(2) Make a Holy Hour for your priests. Whether your parish has 24/7 Adoration, Adoration on First Fridays, or at any other time, make the intention of your Holy Hour for your parish priests. If your parish doesn't have Eucharistic Adoration, simply take time to go before the Tabernacle. Being in the presence of our Eucharistic Lord is a powerful way to pray, it is like Mary in Gospel who sat at the feet of Jesus listening to Him.

(3) Fast for your priests. Fasting is another powerful form of prayer and sacrifice. By fasting, you are literally giving something up for your priests.

(4) Encourage your priests. It is important to remember that priests are people too. They need affirmation just as we do. They need to be told when they do or say something good and correct. We, as faithful laity, need to encourage their fidelity to the Catholic Faith, however it might be shown.

(5) Be a friend to your priests. Do good to your priests. Show them kindness and love. Teach your children to do the same. Speak to them and let them know you care for them. It will not always be easy, but it is necessary.

These are trying, troubling times, yet times of hope for Jesus Christ is Lord and He will not abandon us. We must strive to be Christ to our priests and to the world.

May the Holy Family continue to bless and guide each of you and your families.

In Christ,
Joe

Posted by jay at February 1, 2007 7:24 AM