Priesthood

As he was walking by the Sea of Galilee he saw two brothers, Simon, who was called Peter, and his brother Andrew;  they were making a cast in the lake with their nets, for they were fishermen.  And he said to them, ‘Follow me and I will make you fishers of men’.  And they left their nets at once and followed him.  (Matthew 4: 18-20)


Vocations Director: 
Fr. Billy Meehan,
St. Mary’s,
Irishtown,
Clonmel,
Co. Tipperary

Tel: (052) 6122954. or 086 2478866.

It is not easy to put into words what a vocation is.  We know the word ‘vocation’ comes from the Latin word ‘vocare’ which means to call.  It involves a felt attraction to the vision and message of Jesus, and a desire to use ones energies for the kind of ministry that he was about.

The call to Vocation in the Church is a call to use your gifts and talents and abilities to build up the Kingdom of God, depending upon his divine help and inspiration.  If you have a Vocation, you are called to give over your life to make Christ’s present among the people, through the Sacraments, and especially through Eucharist.


What is a Diocesan Priest?
A Diocesan Priest commits himself to serve the people of a Diocese and cares for every person within his community.  He serves the day to day spiritual needs of his people.  He uses his own particular gifts to help in the service of others.  He visits the sick and supports families in times of bereavement and tragedy.  He celebrates Mass and sacraments such as Baptism, Reconciliation and Marriage.


How do I know if I am the right person for Priesthood?
  • Do you have a desire to always help others and do you pray?
  • Do you enjoy life, people and have a sense of humour?
  • Are you concerned for the poor and the vulnerable in your community?

If you answer ‘Yes’, then maybe you are the right sort of person.

How do I know God is calling me?
God calls us and speaks to us in many different ways.  He speaks to us through prayer, through the circumstances that we may find ourselves in throughout life.   Maybe you have a sense of fear about making such a committment, but remember there is also a sense of excitement, a challenge, an invitation, and sense of being called beyond yourself to share in a great work.

 

What should I do if I want to be a Priest?
  • Pray
  • Listen to God
  • Attend Mass and receive Eucharist.
  • Talk to a Priest in your local area
  • Become involved in your Parish


 Pope Benedict has published a letter to Seminarian’s dated 18th October 2010.   Please click Letter to Seminarians to read further.   

 

Vocations

IF YOUR LIFE’S DREAM IS ….

To listen to those the world won’t hear
To dry the tears of the broken hearted
To stand for social injustice
To be a reconciling presence
To radiate Christ’s love to the world
To make a difference in today’s world, because you can….

May the Lord God Almighty,
Open our ears to His Call,
Open our eyes to His Presence,
Open our hearts to His love,
Open our will to His ways.

God Almighty calls Me …
To praise Him,
And to make known
His Peace,
His Love,
His Presence,
To everyone I meet.

Let me not delay or neglect this call
Because I have only one chance,
one life to fulfil this mission.