Celebrating priests

There are a whole bunch of priests who are expected to show up in just over an hour's time for a special celebration that's taking place in their honour.

Last June, when the Holy Father declared the beginning of a special Year for Priests, plans were quickly put in place by a local group of lay people for a special celebration to thank and honour the priests of this diocese. Invitations were sent, tables of attendees were organized, and a special invitation was sent to the one who will preside and share words of wisdom with the gathered assembly.

Following the completion of the Eucharistic celebration, there will be a special meal at which some 600+ guests are expected.

This is indeed a rare occurrence. The group who has made all this happen have in the past held special occasions to pay tribute to priests who are celebrating specific anniversaries of ordination. This year, they have invited all the priests who are currently exercising their presbyteral ministry to attend. Together with parishioners from many of the parishes throughout the diocese, we will give thanks for the gift of priests in our midst.

With gratitude to those who have worked so hard to make this happen, and with the assurance of our prayer, we count on the intercession of the holy Curé of Ars, and the Blessed Virgin, mother of all priests. May the good work begun ... come to it's completion in the spirit in which it is intended.