To my son Benjamin on Becoming a Priest

Benjamin I couldn’t be more proud of you the choice you are making with your life. You are giving your life to be a Catholic priest. You are making a vow to serve God, giving up having your own family and dedicating yourself totally in service to others.

It’s a courageous decision you’ve made. It’s not the 1950s anymore when priests were held in great esteem by almost everyone, religious or not. Today fallout from clergy sex abuse has tarnished the image of the priesthood. And in a hyper-sexualized culture some can’t fathom why anyone would vow to live a life of celibacy. Some will look at you with distain.

Yet our world needs a good priest more than ever. We’ve gotten caught up with material things and pleasures that really don’t bring us lasting joy. Many go from distraction to distraction, trying to find a thrill, but not connecting to one’s deep inner being—their soul—and sadly not becoming the best version of themselves.

The Blues Brothers Song refrain “I’m a Soul Man” expresses what you’re about.

You will help people who want to discover purpose and connection. Your words, whether given in a homily to hundreds, or in a conversation with one person, can bring healing and the inspiration to make needed change.

You will remind people that they are beloved sons and precious daughters of their heavenly Father (many have forgotten this or never have known it.) You will not impose but propose a living faith with a loving God who is awaiting a relationship.

And you will consecrate bread and wine that becomes the Body and Blood of Christ—the food and drink to nourish people’s souls.

Our world needs much healing, reconciliation and people committed to service. As a priest you can mobilize people to feed the hungry, safeguard human dignity and foster forgiveness and renewal.

You will face challenges: People will test you. They will be trying to see if faith is real.

But you will invite people today to reclaim the ancient wisdom that Saint Augustine shared in his autobiography Confessions--“Our heart is restless until it rests in thee.”

On Saturday June 22 when Seattle Archbishop Peter Sartain prays over you and ordains you a priest your adventure begins. Our world needs you to be a good and caring priest. Be a Soul man. Cooperate with God’s grace and you’ll do fine. Remind us what and who real love is—and how to get it.

I invite all reading this to pray for you. Lastly Benjamin, soon to be Fr. Benjamin (Ben), know that your heavenly Father and your earthly dad will always have your back!