"We priests are not perfect. Sometimes we disappoint you. Sadly, sometimes we even scandalize you. For our faults, failings and sins we are humbly sorry. We are endowed with the great and awesome dignity of the holy priesthood, but we remain mortal men who, like all of us, labor under the effects of original sin.
"When I am overcome with my own weakness, unworthiness and sinfulness, I am comforted by considering who Jesus chose to be his first apostles and priests. They were often weak and seemed not to understand what Jesus was trying to teach them. He chose one, St. Peter, who would three times deny even knowing Jesus at his greatest hour of need. He even chose one, Judas, who would betray him and hand him over to be crucified.
"But filled with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, he sent them forth to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God and to build up the Church in faith, hope and love. Jesus continues this saving work among us in a special way through the ministry of our bishops and priests. The Holy Spirit guides and sanctifies the Church, even in spite of our human weakness and failings. All of the children of God, not just priests, are in constant need of repentance and renewal.
"My dear people, sometimes our priests (and bishop) get discouraged at what seems to be a lack of results from all of our priestly labors. We often do not get to see the good results of the work that we do. Sometimes people are very quick to complain or criticize. I hope that you will take a moment from time to time to encourage and thank your priests for the life of service they have given to Christ and his Church. Most of all please pray for your priests as they do for you."
Heaven knows that our good Bishops are under fire for standing up for our Catholic Faith nowadays. What can we do about it? Support them with our prayers!
Rosary for the Bishop is a campaign that aims to support Catholic Bishops through prayer of the Rosary. Please take a few minutes to join in praying for your Bishop.
Mary, Mother of Jesus Christ, Eternal High Priest, Mother of all priests and our Mother, help us respond generously to the Holy Spirit's request, through the voice of His Church, to offer up to God Eucharistic adoration for priests. Amen.
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