- These are times in which we must condemn priests for taking days off. What is that, anyway? Have they no faith? Do they not know that the sheep are by and large without a shepherd? And how bad is it that more than one priest would ever be found in the presence of another! Let’s spread them out so that we have a more equitable distribution of the clergy. And if they were ever to enjoy some fierce theological, philosophical, liturgical, spiritual, sacramental, ecclesiological and other truly fiercely enthusiastic conversation about all levels of natural, societal and ecclesial law… – – – – – Just. No. !!!
/// off sarcasm
Here’s the deal: yesterday, all day yesterday, I was away, far away, out of state, in one of the other dioceses of these United States, having been mandated by that bishop, that local ordinary, to do up an exorcism for a gentle soul whom it was a privilege to meet. It was my normal and almost always epic “Day Off.” I make sure about that because it’s my own time and I’m NOT taking away from ministry to this parish (and assistance with the other, fully, then, four counties).
And, yes, I had an absolute blast (to use an old word of decades gone by). I love being a priest. I love priestly fraternity. It does me good. It does all priests good. Don’t begrudge your priests some “down time,” even with other priests. You never know what they might be doing for Christ Jesus and His Church, His flock.
Sorry for being so very brash. I’m just in a good mood that the Lord offers me forgiveness for my multitude of sins, offers that my name be inscribed in heaven. That’s on Him, not me. He is very good and kind.
ARISE! LET US BE GOING! 