A priest shares in the glory of the "good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep". [Jn 10:11] This glory is born of humility and gentleness. It reveals itself in service to all. The pastor, the primary servant of his parish, must wash feet. Clergy should labor and toil in their work, for the people will not respect a shepherd who is idle.
The source of the pastor's holiness is Christ. Not only must his holiness inspire the people, but the pastor's own salvation depends upon it. He must preach the Kingdom of God, not the compromise of God! He is to tend God's flock in his charge, not by constraint but willingly, not for shameful gain but eagerly, not high-handedly but by being gentle and forbearing. And when the chief Shepherd appears in glory, your unworthy priest prays that he will merit even the last place at his heavenly banquet table.
The laity of the Church will be their witnesses before God. Laboring for the Gospel is not a career. Rather, it is a calling, a vocation, a holy way of life. A pastor is accountable to Christ and the Church for the salvation of souls, never to the world. Therefore, clergy are to be "holy and righteous and blameless in the sight of believers". [1Th 2:10]
A PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS
God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son's Kingdom as priests, deacons, religious, and consecrated persons. Send our Holy Spirit to help us respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit , One God for ever and ever.