Messages

June 7, 1997
From the Cure D’Ars -Patron of Parish Priests
St. John Vianney, Cure d'Ars and Patron of Priests

I look up to see the Cure D'Ars. He says, “I see you are not so glad to see me. We do not operate in fear. I know you are afraid I will tell you things that will leave you open to criticism. I only come bearing truth.”

“Where do I begin? Faith in the Holy Father, faith in the Real Presence in the Eucharist, devotion to Our Lady and the Holy Rosary – these are the three strong points that a good priest must have. There is nothing here open to debate or compromise. These are Church doctrine. No one can be one-half a Catholic. You either believe or you don't.”

“The function of a priest is to bring the sacraments to the people. Nothing should get in the way of this.”

“The priest can change many souls and situations from the pulpit and by his lifestyle. He can uncover sin, fight abortion, feed the hungry, and strengthen faith. He can promote the family Rosary and Rosary groups in his own parish. He can ask for prayers against abortion and in support of the Holy Father and the Church. He can lead a saintly, exemplary life not being afraid of unpopularity or being a sign of the priesthood in the world – not being afraid to uncover sin.”

“A vocation is a special gift from God. It is a call, and within that call is grave responsibility towards his parishioners and their salvation,”

The Cure nods to me. “There now. Was that so bad? Move forward.” He blesses me and leaves.