The cost of discipleship: A priest exists for others

The Clarion Herald celebrates “The Gift of Priesthood” with the following reflection from Father G. Amaldoss, pastor of St. Joachim Parish in Marrero.

I first heard of Fulton Sheen in the ’70s. His writing on priesthood was inspiring and demanding. The personal cost of discipleship is the underlying theme of his reflections on priesthood. The priest is not his own but exists to serve others.

This has become clearer as I have lived my priesthood for the last 43 years. This year, in April, I celebrated 43 years in the priesthood and reached 75 years of age.

I experience the power of Jesus’ calling and the power of his graces. I am very grateful to the Lord of my life who sustains, leads and guides me through his Spirit.  

Living a single life is very challenging and trying on a daily basis; there were trials and tribulations as I was re-formed by all these years in my priesthood. 

Attending to the needs of the sick and infirm and reaching out to the suffering and needy among my flock draw me deeper into the mystery of my priesthood and dying to myself. The face of Jesus and his meekness and humility take me deeper into my innermost being.

Many times, I  feel I  have no time for myself and struggle to keep calm in order to serve. On these occasions, God sends me many people to take care of me  and keep me united with my ministry to the Lord.

When thinking of others, I sometimes forget who I am. I must search for my “lost self” to rediscover the identity of my true character. The greatest joy in my priestly life is ministering to the needs of the people. My joy is boundless when I can attend to the dying person and help that person complete his journey toward God. 

I am very grateful to all who help me live my priestly life. It is the people of God who love, care, sustain and support me in my life, and the lives of all priests. Oh, people of God, we priests are not only chosen from you, but we also thank you for all your love and support.

I thank all those who love me and support me in my priesthood. May God bless you. You are a priestly people and a holy people.

Father G. Amaldoss is pastor of St. Joachim Parish in Marrero in the Archdiocese of New Orleans.