Pray for our priests
Although I have been a Catholic most of my life, I had never attended the Chrism Mass until this year. What a beautiful celebration of our faith in so many ways, from consecrating the sacred oils to the unity of all the priests offering the holy Mass. What was especially moving was witnessing the priests renewing their promises. As I watched them renew their fidelity to the bishop and to Jesus Christ, I felt incredibly grateful for these men who are our friends, spiritual guides and companions.
I could not imagine my life without the graces I have received through the hands of these priests. The hands that have baptized our family, the hands that blessed and forgave us in the sacrament of reconciliation and anointed us when we were ill. The hands that turned plain bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ. Padre Pio said it would be easier for us to live without the sun than the holy Mass. Who alone can give us the Mass except our priests?
Attending the Chrism Mass, I felt so thankful for the love and the guidance from these priests that we have received through the trials and difficulties of life. Let us remember to cherish, honor and pray for our priests. Especially in these challenging times when the weight of the world often falls upon their shoulders. As our Lady often asks us in her apparitions, pray, pray, pray for your priests!
Sandi Hansen
Davenport
