My dear friends,
Praise be Jesus Christ now and forever!
As I quietly mark 15 years of priesthood, I find myself filled not with pride, but with gratitude. Like Abram in Book of Genesis 12: 1–4, I, too, was invited to leave something familiar and step into the unknown. God said, “Go forth,” and Abram went. The priesthood begins the same way—not with certainty, but with trust. Fifteen years later, I know more deeply that this vocation is sustained not by my strength, but by God’s grace. When zeal matures into compassion, when plans give way to Providence, we discover that it is God who remains faithful.
St. Paul reminds us in his second letter to Timothy 1: 8b–10 that we have received not a spirit of timidity, but of power, love, and self-control. Priesthood, like every Christian vocation, is a holy calling by grace. It is not earned. It is entrusted. There have been thousands of Masses, confessions, hospital visits, conversations, and quiet prayers—but in all of it, Jesus Christ has been the one at work. Even suffering and solitude becomes places of encounter, where weakness is transformed into mercy. Jesus has “abolished death and brought life and immortality to light.” That victory gives courage to continue.
In the Gospel of Matthew 17: 1–9, the Transfiguration reveals glory before the Cross. God the Father says, “Listen to Him.” The disciples cannot remain on the mountain; they must descend into the valley. So too in priesthood—and in all Christian life—we carry moments of light back into ordinary days. When the vision fades, “Jesus alone” remains. And that is enough.
Fifteen years have taught me this: our journey is a pilgrimage of trust. We go forth, we endure, we serve joyfully—not because we are strong, but because God is faithful. Let us rise, not be afraid, and continue walking together toward the glory He promises. Please continue to pray for me and all the priests. Amen
God Loves You! ~ Fr. Neil