"For these I pray -- not for the world but for these you have given me. O Father most holy, protect them with your name which you have given me that they may be one, even as we are one. I gave them your word, and the world has hated them for it; I do not ask you to take them out of the world, but to guard them from the evil one. Consecrate them by means of truth. 'Your word is truth.' As you have sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world; I consecrate myself for their sakes now, that they may be consecrated in truth" (Jn 17:9-19).
Leadership within the Christian
community was a necessity after Jesus ascended to the Father. Someone had
to direct and guide the mission of spreading the good news entrusted to the
followers of Jesus. It was only natural for the apostles to fill that role
initially but as time went on, the community had to establish a structure for
selecting and affirming leadership so that the gifts in the community could be
ordered and encouraged. It is this need for ongoing leadership that is the
basis for the sacrament of holy orders.
If you would like to help encourage vocations by serving on our Vocation
Committee, call the Parish Office (229-5168). If you are interested in
becoming a Priest, Deacon, Religious Sister or Brother call Father Healy or the
Diocesan Vocation Office (756-1850).