Friends:

In an address dated March 16, 2009, our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, stated:

“…to encourage priests in this striving for spiritual perfection on which, above all, the effectiveness of their ministry depends, I have decided to establish a special “Year for Priests” that will begin on 19 June and last until 19 June 2010. In fact, it is the 150th anniversary of the death of the Holy Curé d’Ars, John Mary Vianney, a true example of a pastor at the service of Christ’s flock. It will be the task of the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy, in agreement with the diocesan Bishops and with the superiors of religious institutes to promote and to coordinate the various spiritual and pastoral initiatives that seem useful for making the importance of the priest’s role and mission in the Church and in contemporary society ever more clearly perceived.”

Back in the ’60’s, when the church was getting ready for the Second Vatican Council, we held several meetings in our Major Seminary. At one point, we were discussing who the most poor and forgotten were among God’s People. I’ll never forget when Fr. Joe McClain, C.M., raised his hand and said to all of us: “Let us not forget priests. Priests are one of the most forgotten groups in the Church.” After more than 50 years, I still remember what he said. As a priest, I tried to always be conscious of my responsibility to “serve other priests”.

This “Year for Priests” is dear to my heart and I hope that it will be so for all of you. It is part and parcel of Vincentian spirituality. As you know, here in our Parish, we will begin this special year with a Holy Hour tomorrow night, Thursday, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. We will pray for priests! Even if you can be with us for only a few minutes, join us in our Prayer for Priests.

Thank you!

Jack Kane, C.M.