Priesthood is not about us

These words from Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., during the Ordination to the Priesthood of eight newly ordained priests in the Archdiocese of Davao on June 29, 2024, serve as a meaningful reminder of the true essence of priesthood. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Archdiocese, reflecting on the sub-theme of “Family as the Basic Unit of Society and Domestic Church in the Home,” it becomes essential to focus on how priesthood aligns with nurturing the youth, the hope of the Church, and fostering vocations.

In his homily, Archbishop Valles emphasized the centrality of Jesus in the life of a priest. Priesthood is fundamentally a call to point beyond oneself, to be a humble servant who leads others not to himself but to Jesus. This message resonates deeply within the context of family and community, where the role of a priest extends to being a spiritual guide and mentor, particularly for the youth.

The newly ordained priests are called to remember that a priest is not a master but a servant; not a king but a shepherd. Their role is to guide, nurture, and lead others to Jesus, embodying the spirit of service that is crucial in both the Church and the domestic church of the family. As the family is the primary place where faith is nurtured, priests play a pivotal role in supporting parents and guardians in their mission to raise children in the faith.

In celebrating this milestone anniversary, it is vital to acknowledge the interconnectedness of priesthood and family. The family, as the foundational unit of society and the domestic church, is where vocations are often first discerned and nurtured. The youth, as the future of the Church, look to priests not only as religious leaders but also as examples of Christ-like love and service.

As we pray for the newly ordained priests, let us also pray for our families and young people, that they may be inspired by these priests’ dedication and commitment to their vocation. May families continue to be the fertile ground where vocations to the priesthood and religious life are encouraged and supported.

Ultimately, priesthood is not about us; it is about Jesus. It is about serving and guiding others towards a deeper relationship with Christ. As we commemorate 75 years of the Archdiocese of Davao, let us renew our commitment to fostering strong families and nurturing the youth, ensuring that they see the beauty and importance of a life dedicated to service in the Church.