A Time to Walk with Christ and Support Our Priests

Why the Priesthood Still Matters

At the Chrism Mass last evening, I invited the faithful to reflect on the priesthood as a sacred gift Christ has given to His Church. Priests stand at the intersection of heaven and earth, bringing God’s mercy to His people through the Eucharist and the forgiveness of sins. Inspired by the example of St. Francis of Assisi, I reminded those gathered that the priesthood is not about status or authority, but about humble service and the unique role priests play in making Christ present to His people. For example, St. Francis was not a priest, but a Deacon. He did not feel worthy to be a priest, but led a life of faithful service. 

I also reflected on how the priesthood is a call to sacrifice, not privilege. Looking to the example of St. John Vianney, I emphasized that a priest’s true strength does not come from talent or human ability but from holiness, prayer, and a deep relationship with Christ. Priests are called to allow God to continually transform their hearts so they may serve God’s people with compassion, humility, and courage, even amid their own human weaknesses and challenges.

St. Justin Russolillo, who founded the Society of Divine Vocations, or the Vocationist Fathers (S.D.V.), the order to which I belong, taught that the heart of the priesthood is the pursuit of holiness and helping others grow in holiness. This is a reminder that nothing draws people closer to God than the witness of a holy priest. 

Finally, reflecting upon the Stronger Priests, Stronger Parishes, Stronger Church Initiative, I reminded the faithful of the important role they play in supporting their priests through prayer and encouragement. The mission entrusted to priests is immense, and the renewal of the Church depends on all of us growing in holiness together. When priests and people alike surrender their hearts to Christ, we become powerful witnesses to God’s love and instruments of His grace in the world.

I was pleased that so many priests and the faithful took time out of their day during this busy Holy Week to join us in recognizing the importance of the priesthood as the Sacramental holy oils were blessed.
During the Chrism Mass, we also recognized those priests celebrating significant anniversaries of Priestly Ordination. We congratulate them and offer our deep gratitude for their service.

60 Years
Father Paul E. Canuel

40 Years
Father Freddie Babiczuk
Father Thomas A. Frechette
Father Maurice O. Gauvin
Father Timothy P. Reis, V.P.

25 Years
Father Kevin A. Cook
Father David C. Frederici, V.G.
Father Sioneata Kaitapu, SS.CC.
Father David A. Pignato
Father Rodney E. Thibault

Walking With Christ Through His Passion and Resurrection

As we enter the sacred days of the Triduum, we begin the most important and profound moments of our liturgical year. From the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, to the solemn remembrance of Christ’s Passion on Good Friday, and finally to the great joy of the Easter Vigil, the Church invites us to walk closely with the Lord through His suffering, death, and Resurrection. I invite the faithful of our Diocese to make time to participate in these beautiful and powerful liturgies. By being present in prayer, reflection, and worship, we deepen our faith, strengthen our hope, and more fully experience the love that Christ poured out for us. These days are not simply commemorations of past events, but living encounters with the mystery of our salvation.

Wishing you all a blessed and prayerful Holy Week, and a Happy Easter!

+Bishop da Cunha