Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As I sit down to write this letter, it’s on the eve of my 40th birthday. A milestone year, as some say, and perhaps the most significant start of a new decade for me since I hit double digits at age 10. Birthdays and age can be a bit funny, in terms of how we may look at ourselves and at how others may think of us. But I have found that age and the priesthood have a unique relationship
in particular.
Many of us have encountered young priests; all of us have known old priests, but there’s something about the priesthood that comes across as timeless. I’m not sure if it’s all the black we wear or what, but it’s often hard to pin down the exact age of a particular priest, it seems. Admittedly, it can be hard to guess any person’s age, but there seems to be something deeper happening when it comes to priests.
I think a large portion of it has to do with the special and unique place that priests play in the life of a parish and its parishioners. Father is there for all big moments: weddings, baptisms, 1st communions, confirmations, and funerals. But Father is also there for all the smaller, ordinary moments: a high five before and after Mass, popping in during class for both the school and religious education, visiting with parishioners at home, and even grocery shopping at Shoprite. Priests occupy a space that few others can; their sources of spiritual guidance and support in critical moments and an abiding presence within the wider community and everyday life.
There’s a phenomenon that occurs within parish life for a priest that really sums up what I mean. After a certain period of time, once a priest is integrated into the community, people tend to forget how long he’s been there. When I tell people that I’m here over 9 years, they are shocked to realize that. When they tell stories and reference certain events or people that precede my time, they often assume that I’ll remember, as if I were around for it. In a very real way, these experiences make me feel at home here at St. Charles.
At 40, I believe, I’m no longer a young priest. I’m not sure if I yet qualify as an old priest. But, I’m looking forward to what my 40’s hold in store, as I continue in my priestly ministry. To everyone who has wished me a Happy Birthday or will do so in the days to come, I want to thank you. I’m so happy and grateful to be part of such a wonderful community. And it’s in my work and ministry as your pastor, that I find great fulfillment. Of course, this week, there will be cake and celebrations, (and some Oreos for good measure!) But my greatest gift is to have the honor of being part of this parish community as your faithful shepherd!
Peace and Goodness,
Fr. Dan
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