‘Are you weak enough to be a priest? Are you broken enough to be priests? Are you afraid enough to be part of the priesthood?

(H/t Epic Pew):
It’s no secret that the Catholic Church is hurting. Breaking news and seemingly constant stories about scandal and abuse within the priesthood and clergy are daily reminders of this brokenness.

But if you’re looking for a ray of hope in the midst of the suffering, especially as it relates to the priesthood, you need to watch a brand new short film by Sabins Studio, “It is the Lord.”

The film documents the ordination day of four priests in the Philippines, and their Archbishop’s rallying call to a sacrificial life of priesthood.

During the homily, Archbishop Socrates Villegas asked the future priests three questions: Are you weak enough to be priests? Are you broken enough to be priests? Are you afraid enough to be part of the priesthood?

When we are on our knees, when we are clinging to faith by our finger tips, when we feel like we are lost sheep betrayed by our shepherds the reading from Sirach might be a source of inspiration.

(From Facebook post today:)

Sirach 2:1-11 - the first reading at Mass today - has been so important to me, ever since I was a teenager. Again and again it has given me life in challenging circumstances. If you're struggling on your journey, or worried at the state of the Church, why not ponder this word?:

My son, if you aspire to serve the Lord,prepare yourself for an ordeal.Be sincere of heart, be steadfast,and do not be alarmed when disaster comes.Cling to him and do not leave him,so that you may be honoured at the end of your days.Whatever happens to you, accept it,and in the uncertainties of your humble state, be patient,since gold is tested in the fire,and chosen men in the furnace of humiliation.Trust him and he will uphold you,follow a straight path and hope in him.You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy;do not turn aside in case you fall.You who fear the Lord, trust him,and you will not be baulked of your reward.You who fear the Lord hope for good things,for everlasting happiness and mercy.Look at the generations of old and see:who ever trusted in the Lord and was put to shame?Or who ever feared him steadfastly and was left forsaken?Or who ever called out to him, and was ignored?For the Lord is compassionate and merciful,he forgives sins, and saves in days of distress.