“While we are all aware of the great challenges facing the Church and society at this time, we know also that God the all-powerful is always with us,” said Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan, chair of the Bishops’ Council for Vocations.
"The Ordination of a man to the priesthood is an opportunity to renew again that invitation and sense of support to others who may be discerning a calling to priesthood and religious life," – Bishop Tom Deenihan.
“You are called to be a priest and exercise your ministry in the culture of today. It is not that you simply align yourself with everything that is present in that culture. It is not that you reject modernity. It is not that you feel satisfied with vague cultural Catholicism. As priest, you are called, like Moses, to lead the men and women of our time,” said Archbishop Martin.
"As we face the future, we must remember that the Lord who called us, whom we surrendered to on the day of our ordination, the Lord who placed His hands upon our head, that same Lord is calling us now!" – Bishop Dempsey.
Archbishop Michael Neary told Shane that his responsibilities as a priest will be counter-cultural when he preaches Christ’s gospel: “As a priest of Jesus Christ you will proclaim his message, you will do so utilising your gifts, interests and insights but it will always be his message not your own preferences or prejudices,” said Archbishop Neary.
And honestly, I just can't wait to be a priest. This is very temporary, the circumstances are extraordinary – Brother Chris.
During COVID-19 restrictions it is very timely to talk about vocations in a time of great silence and solitude, and when people have more time to reflect on their lives and where their lives are going – Fr Willie Purcell
As the number of priests in the diocese grows smaller, Bishop Gavin said: “We need to actively go out of our way to encourage, foster, nourish and promote vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.”
Abductions in the state have become “a big business” though some kidnappings are for religious reasons, – Rev John Joseph Hayab.
Promotion of World Peace
The future of the very young
“Today, the urgency of vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and lay ministry and the question of self-care for priests are ones that must be addressed in a meaningful way" - Bishop Larry Duffy.
Dialogue and reconciliation in the Middle East
Two men are beginning their studies for the priesthood this autumn and a third is embarking on the permanent diaconate.
Missionary spring in the Church
Protecting the oceans
In his homily at a Mass in St Kieran’s College for priests celebrating their ordination jubilees, the Bishop of Ossory stressed that the kingdom of God does not come about by “being passive”.
“He always brought integrity, justice and balance to the causes which he espoused.”
Families, Schools of Human Development
The young priest. Religion. Credits: BLOC
Integrity of Justice
“Now is the time for us, people and clergy together, to listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in order to shape a Church fit for purpose in the 21st century.”
Fr Michael Router’s elevation to the hierarchy was announced by Pope Francis in May this year. The 54-year-old Cavanman will be appointed the titular bishop of Lugmad.
“Priests in Ireland have more than most borne the heat of the day.”
“Eucharist is at the heart of priesthood. When Eucharist is celebrated, God walks among his people."
“Above all, he has served countless people as a priest and it is this priestly ministry which the people of the diocese and his many friends celebrate.”
“This is an essential part of the mission of the priest; to break for the people the bread of God’s Word as well as the bread of the Eucharist.”
Dom Malachy Thompson was ordained a Cistercian priest on Pentecost Sunday, while on Sunday 30 June Bishop Larry Duffy will ordain Deacon Kevin Connolly for Clogher diocese.
The Priests’ Way of Life
"I am very keen to encourage and nurture vocations to the priesthood from among our own young people, many of whom have strong faith and great gifts to offer our Church. How might this be done?” asks Archbishop Eamon Martin.
