In Gratitude for our Priests
Champions of Young Adult Ministry and Faithful Shepherds
When was the last time you thought about the sheer magnitude of what a priest does for us? They celebrate Mass daily, hear confessions, anoint the sick, attend countless meetings, prepare homilies, offer spiritual direction, minister to the marginalized, and, somehow, they still find time to advocate for young adult ministry. All this while answering the call to live their vocation fully, tirelessly giving of themselves for the glory of God and the good of their flock.
And yet, for many young adults, priests are often the unsung heroes of our spiritual journeys.
As we approach another day, another Mass, or even another young adult ministry event, it’s worth pausing to say: Thank you, Father.
Time is a precious commodity, especially in today’s world. Everyone feels pulled in a million directions, and priests are no exception. Unlike most of us, though, they’ve pledged their lives to serve everyone who comes to them, no matter the hour, no matter the need.
How often do we, as young adults, stop to appreciate that the sacraments we treasure, whether it’s the Eucharist at Sunday Mass, confession on a random Tuesday, or a meaningful conversation at a coffee shop, are made possible because of a priest’s willingness to give us their time? These moments of grace are available to us because of their “yes” to God, a yes that echoes through every encounter.
St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, once said, “The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus.” That love shows up in their unwavering dedication to being present to us. Whether they're preparing for a young adult retreat or standing at the back of the church after Mass, greeting everyone with a smile, priests give us something profoundly beautiful: their availability.
Let’s face it: young adulthood can be a lonely, confusing, and frustrating season of life. You’re too old to be considered "the future of the Church" but often too young to be seen as its present. Enter the parish priest.
Priests have a unique way of seeing young adults not as problems to be solved or projects to be managed, but as vital members of the Church who bring energy, creativity, and questions that need room to breathe. They are often the first people to push for young adult ministry in parishes, championing our need for community, spiritual growth, and meaningful connection with Christ.
They understand that young adults often navigate unsteady terrain, new careers, relationships, discernment, or even disillusionment with the faith. Priests step into this chaos and guide us toward Christ. Think about how many of your ministry events were made possible because your parish priest said, “Let’s make it happen,” even when resources were tight or the parish calendar was packed.
One of the most profound ways priests impact our lives is through the sacraments. Every Mass, confession, or anointing isn’t just a task on their to-do list, it’s a supernatural encounter with God that they facilitate for us. Imagine the countless hours they spend preparing to deliver homilies that will resonate with your restless heart or sitting in the confessional, being instruments of God’s mercy.
When we feel unseen or unworthy, our priests remind us that God is always present and always working in our lives. Whether it’s through their words of encouragement or the simple act of offering the Eucharist, they draw us closer to the love of Christ.
St. Augustine beautifully put it: “O priest, who are you? You are not for yourself, because you are mediator between God and men.” That’s exactly what they are, mediators who make God’s grace tangible in our lives.
So, how do we show gratitude for these shepherds who do so much for us? It doesn’t take much. Here are a few ways:
Pray for them. Priests need our prayers. They’re human, just like us, and their path is not without its challenges.
Say thank you. A simple word of appreciation after Mass or a heartfelt note can mean more than you know.
Support their ministry. Whether it’s volunteering at events, attending parish activities, or simply showing up, your participation matters.
Live your faith. There’s no better way to thank a priest than by embracing the sacraments and living as a witness to Christ in your daily life.
The priests in our lives have given up so much to answer their call to serve. They walk with us through our joys and struggles, reminding us of God’s faithfulness and love. Let’s be grateful for their presence, their time, and their willingness to advocate for us as young adults.
As we look to the year ahead, let’s pray that God continues to bless our priests and inspire them in their vocations. May we also be inspired to show the same love and dedication to our communities that they have shown to us.
Thank you, Fathers, for everything. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are praying for you.
