Jean-Baptiste-Marie Vianney

Today is the Feast of Saint John Vianney who is the patron saint of parish priests. Priestly vocation is a unique gift that Jesus gave us during his last supper with his disciples and immediately before His passion, death and resurrection. Priests today need our support more than ever before. Their life is a contradiction in today's culture ruled by materialism. Today's society fails to understand the sacrificial lifestyle of celibate priests. They are not only misunderstood by non-believers but sometimes even their own people and peers have lost faith in the sacrament of holy orders and priestly celibacy. During these times we could show our appreciation for our priests by our life. The way we live can be a source of encouragement for the priests and religious of our time. It can give them some consolation to see lay people putting God's kingdom above everything else. It can give them courage when they see us pray and proclaim the Gospel truth and the teachings of the Catholic Church without watering it down. I believe our fearless adherence to our faith which is counter cultural will be a source of comfort to them.