Becoming a Catholic priest is a long and challenging process. So how does a day in the life of a Catholic priest look like though?
Before we start, you need to understand that the primary role of catholic priests is administering the church’s seven sacraments including;
- Baptism
- Confirmation
- Confession
- Holy Communion
- Marriage
- Holy orders
- Anointing of the sick
What You'll Learn Today
How Is A Day In The Life Of A Catholic Priest Like?
Most priests have a fairly varied schedule so a day in the life of a priest can include a wide range of duties depending on the church they administer and the particular needs of the local community.
But there are some common activities that make up the daily life of a Catholic priest.
1. Self-Reflection And Mindfulness
Based on biblical teachings, self-reflection is a vital part of their religion and lifestyle. This is a special type of mindfulness that enables their intercession between man and God.
Acts 20:28
“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood”.
Mindfulness for the priests is a multifaceted practice whose goal goes beyond mere self-efficiency. It also serves as a significant source of guidance to serve.
2. Mass
The greatest form of worship for Catholics is Mass. The priest is responsible for the celebration of the Eucharist.
This unifying event is celebrated daily, with or without congregation.
Luke 22:19
“And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
1 Corinthians 11:26
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes”.
3. Service To Church And Community
The Priest will assist the bishop in administering various duties. This may include gathering offerings, caring for the poor and needy, maintaining church quarters, serving as a messenger for the bishop, and fulfilling other assignments from the bishop.
In addition to these duties, they are also responsible for the local church and administering the sacraments. Such events vary so they wouldn’t know what to expect or when.
This gives them plenty of time to mind the welfare of the community. Essentially, it is a full time job. If they are not here, they must be busy serving somewhere.
Here are some general errands a priest would be engaged in;
- Responding to spiritual, cultural and emotional needs of individuals and families.
- Offering support to families in crisis situations.
- Providing spiritual and emotional guidance to individuals and families.
- Giving grief and spiritual guidance and support to families of a dying person.
- Conflict resolution between individuals and groups.
- Spreading the word- gaining new congregants and reminding members of the good news.
- Engaging in bible study sessions
- Facilitating strong bonds of the church and other institutions
4. Learning
A Catholic priests will usually allocate some time daily to learning both or spiritual growth and to serve the church and community better.
He might learn by reading the Bible, preparing sermons, reading spiritual books or conferring with fellow priests and other clergymen.
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