Could I be amongst those being called?

 

 "The Priest is an ordinary man called to an extraordinary ministry" (Cardinal Basil Hume)

 

One thing is certain: The Church of tomorrow, the Church of the 21st Century, needs Priests. The Church always has, and it always will.

 

In being ordained as a Priest you give your whole life for the service of God. To be an example in the image of Christ, a shepherd whose responsibility it is to guide, accompany, teach and bring people closer to God through the Sacraments and the Gospel.

 

If you offer your life in the service of Christ, you will be called upon to bring God's own love to his people, a love which touches every aspect of their lives. You will be asked to show your own great love by laying down your life for the friends you serve in Jesus' name.

 

Perhaps this is the first time you have asked yourself this question; you have been stirred deep within yourself in some mysterious way. Perhaps you thought about it as a young boy, but it has just begun to emerge again. Perhaps others have suggested it to you, and you are wondering if they could be right. Perhaps you have been inspired by the example of a priest you know.

 

Whatever your age, experience or background, you will almost certainly feel very hesitant about a call to the priesthood. That is only natural! The priestly ministry is a real challenge, an adventure of love. It means being close to Jesus in a special way, with his own joy deep within you, but also sharing the trials and suffering that came his way. Like so many people called by God, including the great Prophets and the Apostles, you feel that you are too old or too young; you are unworthy of so great a ministry; you could not cope; it would require too great a sacrifice; you do not have the right qualities or qualifications. Perhaps you are just overwhelmed by the whole idea.

 

You are asking what you should do with your life. Above all, what God is asking of you, as only his will of love for you can bring real meaning and purpose.

 

Could Jesus say of you, "he's a man after my own heart"?

 

Are you trying to be such a person?

 

Do you have a desire to help other people know God's love?

 

Are you approachable?

 

Do you enjoy life, people and have a sense of humour?

 

Are you concerned for the poor and vulnerable?

 

Do you pray?

 

If the answer is "yes", then you might be the right sort of person.

 

If you feel that God is calling you to the Priesthood then you should contact the Diocesan Vocations Director for the Birmingham Archdiocese, Fr. Eddie Clare.