DON’T ASK GOD TO CALL MORE PRIESTS!!!

Fr. Ernesto Urbina, C.M., 34 yrs. old, died yesterday (28 April) in Panama. “Chico”, as he was called, suffered from cancer during this past year. Last December 20, Fr. Tom Casella, C.M., 59 yrs. old, died of a stroke. When priests die, especially those who are still very active, it is jolting. When a pope dies, a new one is elected. When a bishop dies, a new one is appointed. When a priest dies, …. You see my point.

 I believe that our God is very loving, just and fair. I believe that He calls the exact number of priests that the Church needs. I believe that He calls not one too many and not one too few. I also believe that not all those called respond. And that, to me, is a big part of the problem.

When we pray for vocations to the priesthood, pray that those called will respond generously. If you notice in some young people leadeship qualities, good personal relations with others and a healthy faith life, speak to them about the possibility that God has gifted them to be priests. Take the initiative yourself! Be God’s voice!

We pray for all priests, living and deceased, who have influenced our lives. Let us set our sights on the future and do what we can to assure that the future will have a vibrant Church.