June 25, 2012 – Phoenix, AZ
Dear Friends,
Hello from the Land of the Sun, and HEAT!!
On June 13, 2012 I celebrated the 25th Anniversary of my Ordination to the Holy Priesthood. The following Sunday, June 17, I offered a High Mass and preached a sermon in celebration of this anniversary. Family members were present as well as the parishioners of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. I am most grateful for those who were present that day, as well as those who have supported the efforts of the Franciscan Friars over the past 25 years.
The role of the priest is unique among all vocations, for it is centered around offering sacrifice each day. But not just any sacrifice, but the Sacrifice of Calvary. This duty is both inspiring and overwhelming. To be allowed at the altar each day in renewing the Eternal Sacrifice does truly bring one great joy, and as a result inspires the priest to offer each Mass more fervently than the last one.
The consideration of placing oneself at the foot of Calvary is, indeed, beyond description, for we are truly unworthy servants. It is only God’s bountiful mercy and goodness which allows the priestly servant to approach the Altar of Sacrifice each day.
The confessional is the second most important responsibility of the Catholic priest. It is here where a penitent’s sins are removed through the power bestowed upon him at his ordination. Many come to the priest with heavy hearts because of their transgressions, looking for peace of soul and heavenly consolations.
The “alter Christus,” the other Christ, takes on the role of spiritual physician, desiring to heal the wounded or dead soul in those few precious moments they are given to admit their guilt and seek forgiveness. Only Almighty God is willing to forgive the sinner although the penitent is guilty of many of the same sins numberless times over.
Unknown to non-Catholics is the trust given the confessor in the confessional. He is given the added burden of hearing the most personal thoughts of the individual, certainly more than that exchanged between married spouses. It is prayer and experience which allows him to properly guide the ailing soul. I pray the trust given to me has been returned by way of good counsel during these private moments.
It is my constant prayer that God bless all of my priestly work, desiring to help those souls which cross my path each day.
Once again, I would like to thank all for their prayers and support these past 25 years, and if it is His Will, that I may be given at least another 25 years to do the work of Holy Mother Church.
May God bless you,
Fr. Joseph, OFM