The ordination of a Passionist Missionary Religious Priest is a profound moment of joy, representing the culmination of years of discernment, formation, and a deep commitment to proclaiming the love of God revealed in the Passion of Jesus Christ. This sacred event signifies a "lifelong yes" to serving the Church and bringing hope to a suffering world.
The Core of Passionist Joy
- The Paschal Mystery: The joy is rooted in the Passionist charism—living, promoting, and preaching the memory of Jesus' Passion. The priest is called to be a "prophet of hope," accompanying the suffering with compassion.
- A "Happy Donkey": Many Passionist Priests express their joy not through personal glory, but as humble servants ("happy donkeys") who are happy to bear the load and share God's love with the world.
- Community Support: The ordination is a celebration for the entire community, reaffirming bonds of fraternity and the shared mission, often involving young and energetic members willing to go to the "peripheries".
The Significance of the Ordination Day
- A Family Reunion: Ordinations are often seen as reunions for the clergy and faithful, full of warmth, Embraces, and shared excitement.
- The Rite of Ordination: The ceremony includes significant steps such as the Promise of Obedience, the Laying of Hands, the Anointing of Hands, and the Investiture with Stole and Chasuble.
- A Missionary Focus: The, Passionist vocation often includes a Missionary Spirit, with new priests willing to serve in diverse locations, focusing on supporting the poor and the crucifieds of today.
The Missionary Priesthood
- Instrument of God's Mercy: Passionist priests and Religious are called to be signs of God's mercy, standing with Mary at the foot of the Cross, and serving the marginalized.
- The "Hundredfold" Promise: Despite the sacrifice, priests and religious Brothers are assured that they will receive a hundredfold in this life—the joy of serving the people of God.
- The Call to Holiness: The vocation is a call to holiness and a life immersed in the love of God, to be lived out in active, loving service to others.
May the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ be always in our Hearts, Amen.
