“It’s not easy to be a priest or a pastor,” I shared with the parishioners during my homily on the Feast of St. John Vianney last week. “I know this,” I added, “having been a priest for thirty-four years.” I spoke honestly about how a priest or a pastor can sometimes become a victim of gossip, misunderstanding, false accusations, insensitivity, comparison, and judgment. If he does not develop a thick skin and remain prayerful, he may feel discouraged, dispirited, hurt, and disappointed. However, he must understand that persecution, criticism, and discouragement are inherent to the role of any minister. If Jesus was not accepted by his own people and was crucified—He who is already God—why should we priests, pastors, and any minister expect to be free of suffering and persecution? Ministry is not for the faint-hearted, but this does not mean that it is not filled with joy and contentment.
The Scripture readings for this Sunday speak to the virtues of perseverance and endurance for those who have responded to God’s call to ministry. In the First Reading (Jeremiah 38:4-6, 8-10), we hear about the Prophet Jeremiah being condemned to death based on false accusations that he was demoralizing the people and neglecting their welfare. They put him into a cistern to die of hunger. Thank God the king ordered his rescue before he succumbed to famine. In the Second Reading (Hebrews 12:1-4), St. Paul urges Christians to persevere in running the race, fixing their eyes on Jesus, enduring all opposition, and not losing heart. In the Gospel (Luke 12:49-53), Jesus warns His disciples to take courage, for the life and faith He asks them to embrace will bring division within families: “A household of five will be divided—three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law.”
Apart from perseverance and endurance, a minister of God must possess fidelity and commitment to their vocation. They should not be tempted to quit in the face of disappointment, which often leads to insecurity and self-doubt. Any voices of despair and self-doubt do not come from God but from Satan.
Priests, pastors, and other ministers need prayers, affirmation, and support. Like anyone else, they are human and, therefore, capable of being hurt and discouraged. While they should model strength and courage, it is equally important for people to recognize their weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
Ministers must learn to listen to the opinions and suggestions of others for the betterment of their ministry and congregation. However, just as in any segment of society, there will always be naysayers, troublemakers, and those sitting in “cheap seats,” waiting to criticize without lifting a finger to help or contribute to the mission, ministry, or any church project. While it is important for ministers to be receptive, they must also establish boundaries to protect their integrity and self-respect.
Let us pray for all ministers of God, that they may remain strong and faithful in their vocations. Let us pray for greater harmony, unity, cooperation, and collaboration among ministers and the faithful. Let us pray for priests and deacons, especially those in leadership and administrative positions, that they may possess wisdom and integrity in fulfilling their roles.
Your loving pastor,
Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.