Rite of Ordination to the Priesthood: Promise #3

Whoops! I actually wrote this Friday but I guess I forgot to post it. Better late than never.

The priesthood has 4 promises and the oath of obedience. I skipped making a post on the promises a week ago last Friday because there are only 4 promises and 5 Friday's in Lent (excluding the Friday after Ash Wednesday). The third promise states:

Promise #3: Are you resolved to exercise the ministry of the Word worthily and wisely, preaching the Gospel and explaining the Catholic faith?

This might seem redundant to be asking one being ordained a priest who, when ordained a deacon, was told by the bishop: As a minister of the altar you will proclaim the Gospel...it will also be their duty to bring God's Word to believer and unbeliever alike... However, the deacon promises to simply proclaim the Gospel and to bring it to the people. The priest doesn't simply proclaim the Gospel - he PREACHES the Gospel. Furthermore, he explains the Catholic faith [which we receive from the Gospel]. Lastly, the priest is to exercise the ministry of the Word. To me, exercising the ministry of the Word, insinuates an action. One exercises the ministry of the Word by LIVING them. not only does one live the Word, but the priest is called to live the Word WORTHILY and WISELY. To worthily live the Word, he must be an example of Christ to everyone. His actions must mirror the care, love, sacrifice and ministry of Jesus. To wisely live the Word, the priest has to be aware of the true mission of Christ and His Church. He has to be knowledgeable of the teachings of the Church and he must teach them to the people faithfully.

At first glance, it might seem that this promise is easy to fulfill. After having broken it apart, however, one can see that it is a challange to fulfill and a lifetime committment. Until next time...God bless.

posted by: crossman at 05:19 | link | comments |
rite of priesthood