Their ministry is essential for the life and the vitality of the Church. The life of a priest is immensely rewarding. It is a privilege to lead a community of faith in the Eucharist and the other sacraments, to proclaim the word of God and to offer care to God's people. We, your bishops, would like to speak to you about the preparation of priests for today. A vocation to priesthood is a calling from God and can grow in an individual from infancy.
Children ask questions about priests when they attend Mass.
Young people take note when priests recognise them and show interest in them. Positive attitudes towards priesthood are shaped in a nourishing Christian environment. Through family, friends, priests, teachers parishioners, and others the call of God is heard more clearly. A few significant people offer a listening ear and encouragement to the person considering priesthood. Each diocese has a vocations director, who helps a prospective candidate discern, and map the way towards priesthood.