Pope Benedict XVI announces the Year for Priests

Pope Benedict XVI encourages all to pray for priests, the Church’s spiritual leaders and those who administer the sacraments by declaring the “Year for Priests,” which starts June 19.

The Holy Father selected St. John Vianney as patron saint for the special year themed, “Faithfulness of Christ, Faithfulness of Priests.” St. John Vianney is honored by the Church for his faithfulness to the priesthood and is referred to as a “model to the parochial clergy.”

Catholic priests celebrate Mass, hear confessions, visit the sick and homebound, and bring all of us closer to Christ in the sacraments of baptism, Holy Communion and reconciliation. They also serve on college campuses, hospitals and prisons bringing a message of hope and forgiveness to all. They work in all aspects of outreach including religious education, respect life, farm worker, youth and family ministries.

During this special year, please pray for the 270 priests working and retired in the Diocese of Orlando who have given their lives to the Church and the people of God. Please also pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood.

This Web site will help you learn more about the Year for Priests and the many opportunities that exist to show our support for the priesthood and the dedicated men who have answered God’s call to serve as priests.