THE "STYLE" OF THE PRIESTHOOD

      Yesterday we had an evening of reflection here at our retired priests' residence which was led by Benedictine Father Tom Acklin from Saint Vincent Archabbey.  He spoke to us of the challenge of a priesthood that, in retirement or other special circumstances, is unlike the priesthood that most of us were used to.  His was a good and comforting message to hear.

     Tuesday I recorded for WAOB the homily of Pope Francis of the previous Sunday at Saint Peter's were he ordained nine young men to the priesthood for the Diocese of Rome.  In his homily the Holy Father told these new priests that priesthood is not a "career" but a sharing in the service of God to his people.  He pointed out that there are certain "marks" that could be described as a style of priesthhood.  There is the style of closeness, compassion, and tenderness.

     He points out that there are four kinds of closeness: first is closeness to God in prayer, in the sacraments, and in the Mass, just as the Lord has remained close to us in our lives.  He says that "A priest who does not pray slowly extinguishes the fire of the Spirit within."  Next there is closeness to the Bishop because he is to be the source of unity between his collaborators, the priests of his diocese.  Then he tells them to be close to each other, never resorting to disunity or gossip.  And fourth he says: "For me, after God, the most important closeness is to the holy faithful people of God."  He points out that priests are chosen from among the people of God to serve them, and they are to be "priests of the people."

     In addition to this style and the mark of closeness there must be compassion and tenderness.  When confronting your problems or those others share with you, share compassion, which leads to forgiveness and to mercy.  Never tire of forgiving, even if you are tired of asking for forgiveness.  Closeness and tenderness and compassion.

     He told these nine young new priests to be "Shepherds close to God, to the Bishop, to each other, and to the people of God.  Shepherds: servants as shepherds."

     Great advice for those embarking on their life of service in ministry and great advice for those of us retired from that same active ministry.