The Priestly Life: An Extension of the Mass

One of my favorite classes so far this semester has been “Holy Orders”, where we learn about the amazing Sacrament which we already had the blessing of partaking in at our diaconate ordination, and which we are currently preparing for at our priesthood ordination in May.

In our opening class and introduction to the course, our professor referred to a 1989 Pastoral Letter which John Cardinal O’Connor, the former Archbishop of New York, wrote to his priests in 1989 entitled “Always a Priest, Always Present.” In the letter, Cardinal O’Connor makes the beautiful observation that “the life of the priest is an extension of the Mass.” At every Mass, Christ’s Paschal Mystery: His passion, death, resurrection, and ascension, are made present in a real and true way. Priests are called to not only celebrate these Sacred Mysteries at the altar, but to live them in all they do. Thus, whether he be baptizing, hearing confessions, visiting the sick, preparing a couple for marriage, teaching a class, or hanging out with the youth group, “the Mass radiates through every thought, word and action, and fills it with the power of the crucifixion.”

This idea moves me greatly and makes me even more excited for ordination in May! The idea that everything that I say and do as a priest has the capacity to put someone in contact with Jesus’ death and resurrection is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The source of this ability can only come from the Eucharist, where we receive Jesus Himself, and are able to partake of the fruits of His redemption. Therefore, if anyone is considering the prospect of a priestly vocation, go to Jesus in the Eucharist, and you will never be led astray.