When Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed this the Year For Priests, he also proclaimed St. John Vianney as patron saint of all priests. Today all of the priests in our diocese are gatheirng with Archbishop Lucas today on the Feast of St. John Vianney.
St. John Vianney said he owed a debt of gratitude to his pious mother, who encouraged his vocation to the priesthood. A mother’s example is powerful, he said, “Virtues go easily from mothers into the hearts of their children, who willingly do what they see being done.” His heavenly mother Mary also could be given credit for the future French saint’s vocation. The saint developed a love for her during his earliest years.
Several priests gave him their heroic example by secretly administering his first sacraments during the French Revolution, when the government persecuted Catholics. One parish priest in particular encouraged St. John Vianney, who struggled with his seminary studies. The priest saw the young man’s holiness, tutored him and refused to give up on him. Is God reaching out to young people through you?
No comments:
Post a Comment
While anyone can comment, a screening process is in place to prevent comments such as spams or obscenities. The best way to make certain your comment gets posted is to include your name.