Vocations to the Priesthood

Fishers of Men

"And Jesus said to them, 'Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.'" Matt 4:19

Jesus calls certain men to a life of unique devotion to him. This call is experienced at different times and in different ways. For some, it comes early in life. For others, the call comes much later.

"I will give you shepherds after my own heart." Jer. 3:15

The Three Offices of the Priest

Priest

A Priest offers the one sacrifice of Jesus made present on the Altar. In union with that sacrifice, he also offers all his prayers, the breviary, his sweat, his anxieties, and indeed his very own body in chaste celibacy to the Lord.

Prophet

Breaking open the Word

The Priest opens up the Word for the people of God, preaching the Truth in season or out of season.

King

In the servant kingship of Christ

The Priest serves his people, leading them on the path to salvation. He goes out for the lost sheep, and brings everyone into the one flock of Jesus Christ.