Father Thomas Welbers' Homily

As is very evident from the many things happening in the Church today, there are far more important considerations in the Gospel than the particular titles by which we Catholics address our priests. The most important line in this Gospel passage, as well perhaps as the most important piece of advice in the entire New Testament, is: “The greatest among you must be your servant.”

That command is not just addressed to priests alone; it’s addressed to all of us. However, more than any other teaching of Jesus, it defines what kind of leadership a priest must show. We priests lead only by striving to share an example of how to serve. The quality of our service has to be the criterion by which all else is to be evaluated.

These days we often speak of our concern for the dwindling number of priests, perhaps even calling it a “priest shortage.” We are continually asked to pray for vocations. Yet, I think that call to prayer rings hollow if it’s seen just in terms of numbers. Our real prayer has to be for priests who take the call to service humbly enough to be good models of the kind of service the Jesus has in mind, in order to lead by example the service to others that Jesus enjoins upon all of us.

As I was preparing for this Sunday’s liturgy during the week, I was struck by how accurately the words of St. Paul in second reading describe in detail what my life of service for you should be. I’d like to read again this second reading from Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians. Perhaps reading it to my self as much as to you. But if you want to know what I should be for you, listen:

(Read the second reading)

I’m not sure that I proclaim and live this word of God as well as I should, and I ask your prayers that all of us priests may remain faithful to the mission Jesus has given us.

And as St. Paul implies, when all is accomplished, I simply give God thanks for the work God has accomplished in you, and for the goodness and example you continually give to me. And I ask your prayers that all of us priests may continue to serve you faithfully in the Lord.

© 2005 Thomas Welbers