Memorial of St. John Vianney

     Today, we celebrate the memorial of St. John Vianney, patron saint of priests.  He is an inspiration to all priests, not because he barely got through seminary, but he dedicated himself to Christ and allowed Christ to use him for the sake of the salvation of those he was called to serve.
     Today, we have the opportunity to remember those priests in our lives that have dedicated themselves to the priesthood.  Those priests that we got along with and those that we do not.  Those that have hurt us and those that have healed us.  Those that we will never forget for the genuine example of service and humility and those that are still diamonds in the ruff.  Of course, every priest is human and we will not like every priest we come in contact with and we might not even agree with his theology or liturgical practices.  However, he is a priest that hopefully knows himself well enough to know his failings and humble enough to apologize when he messes up.
     If I have learned anything in the last three years is to be honest with those entrusted to me.  Have I annoyed some, yes.  Have I angered some others, oh yes.  Have I been true to Christ, by the grace of God.  I have found when I have messed up, I try to email or call the person and apologize and clear the air.  Does it take away the facts of the situation, no.  However, it allows the other person to know that I am aware of my humanity and my mistakes and I am trying to work on it, one day at a time.
     The flip side of the coin is that parishioners want to give words of thanks when things go well, and say thank you when I go to anoint their loved ones or preside at their funerals.  This is where I find fulfillment, in the receiving and dispensing of the sacraments.  Christ uses me as an instrument of his grace.  A fact that St. John Vianney was focused on and espoused.  God transforms lives and I am invited to be his instrument.  Nothing better in the world!
    Thus, please...please...please....pray for your priests, whether you like them, agree with them, or adore them.......We are human beings and we will make mistakes, however by the grace of God, we continue to serve as his instruments.