Priesthood. How did it find its way to me?

Priesthood. How did it find its way to me?

When asked all those years ago, why are you seeking to be a priest?  I replied, I am convinced it is the best way for me to serve the gospel. I am of the same opinion today, and I pray that in the midst of my priesthood, my service as a priest may be of Christ, and for the gospel. Here is a verse I wrote this evening reflecting upon being called to the priesthood.

Priesthood: Love Called…

Love called and I answered

Responding to a call,

gazing into the eyes of the Christ

and hearing constantly a whispered word,

a promise, a covenant,

at first reluctantly hearing this whisper

until it became an invitation, an RSVP,

and I, despite my weakness, and unworthy plea

bowed by head and submitted to Christ meekly.

Love called and I answered

Love called in the silence of the autumn night

Love called in the spring morning, at each amazing first light

Love called in the summer breezes that touched my face,

Love visited my winter home and my joyful work place

Love called in the rain. pouring from the skies

Love drenched, refreshed,

penetrated my excited cries, reassuring my uncertain sighs

Love called in the rapid passing of youthful days

Love called me to walk to old age, justly, humbly, tenderly, in my ways

Love called, accompanying me as a friend, on each step taken

Love sowed seeds of hope, imparted truth, wisdom, meaning

so that my senses truly were awakened.

Love called and I answered

Approaching the altar on the sanctuary,

trembling with both fear

and anticipation

on the day of ordination,

I prostrated before the tabernacle,

placing my trusting hand into the archbishop’s hands,

vowing to hear daily that call of love,

to serve with fidelity, that voice of Christ, that had called me.

Love called and I answered

Love calls still and I answer

“lead the way,

for it is your grace

that has sustained

my priesthood

in grateful moments,

in times of challenge too,

bringing me to each dawning, new day!”

Fr Patrick Brennan © 2020

Please pray for vocations to the priesthood and pray for priests.