A fraternity of encouragement

My understanding of the revelation of Jesus Christ is that everything the Father wanted us to know about him was revealed by Jesus Christ and is contained in the Scriptures.

There is no new revelation of God. But our understanding of that revelation continues to unfold in the events of our lives, as they come to us and as we live them out.

It is important to have a learner’s attitude. Knowledge expands rapidly in the areas of importance to us: medical ethics, sacramental theology, parish administration and good pastoral practice.

Most priests I know wear many hats, often serving on diocesan commissions or committees of their religious congregation. They are dedicated servants but also find it difficult to give appropriate time to each task and to keep abreast of specialized ministries. We would all like to do a better job but lack time and space to provide quality service.

The priests’ gatherings such as the Louisiana Convention of Priests – which had to be pushed back until 2022 – are important. First, to confirm what I already know and believe. Second, to find out new information. I have never been disappointed. But sometimes I am surprised at the source of that new and helpful information.

We are offered formal presentations by knowledgeable speakers who are experts in their fields. But I have also learned what I need to know in the informal gatherings at meals and in the hallways. There is a common bond among the priests, and conversations quickly turn to the challenges we all face in ministry.

The Catholic Church is a sacramental church, and the priesthood plays such an important role. I believe people still recall the positive influence priests have had in their lives. We often listen to another person speak to us from their heart, and we search for answers with them.

There are many signs that our lives are shaped by God, and our reactions are still responsive to the image of Christ that we see only with the eyes of faith. When the day ends, we are reminded that the Word of God is incarnate in our time and place.

Redemptorist Father Allan Weinert is pastor of St. Alphonsus Parish in New Orleans.