Reflecting on priesthood

During this Year for Priests, it is fitting that we should choose to focus our efforts on identifying existing and new practices aimed at helping us to promote fraternity among ourselves.

One of our collegues was invited to share with us today some of his personal reflections, discoveries and wisdom about the value of fraternity in his life. Using resources from the writings of the Curé d'Ars himself, as well as some of the reflections provided more recently by the Holy Father, he reminded us that priesthood is never accepted for our own good, but rather as an act of love offered in response to a deeply personal call issued first from the heart of God, and resounding (so long as we will listen) within our own souls.

Much of the work of the NFPC is focused on the welfare of priests in our respective countries, and so we also chose to share with our international brothers a short exposé on the subject of our two most recent publications:

• A Practical Guide to Priestly Wellness; and
• The Priest as Servant Leader.

Both these documents are the fruit of discussions and deliberations between the priests of Canada. They are honest reflections on the state of priesthood today, and are meant to be used again and again as sources of reflection for priests as well as discussion starters and fodder for the odd heart-to-heart between two or more disciples who are walking the road as companions on the journey.

Since their respective publications, these documents have both been very well received. The more they are used and passed along, the more they are proving to be truly prophetic documents, inviting dialogue, prayer and honesty (at times brutal honesty) with ourselves and with those with whom we trust enough to share our stories.

Our hope has always been, and continues to be, that this work will bear fruit not only for the priests of this country, but for all who may find it challenging for their spirits, and nourishing for their souls.