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Priesthood Is Servant-hood
Fr. Philip and Amma Charlene Priesthood Like Marriage Requires Balance
Priesthood is servant-hood is a statement that encapsulates the core idea that serving others is a fundamental aspect of the priesthood. It emphasizes that true priesthood involves humility and a willingness to serve, mirroring Christ's own example.
In Christian/Catholic theology, servant-hood is viewed as a key characteristic of Christian discipleship, especially for church leaders. It's a call to emulate Christ's humility and service towards others. Jesus himself exemplified this by washing the feet of his disciples, demonstrating a willingness to serve others.
In John 13:12–20 is Jesus' explanation of His humble act: washing the feet of the disciples. Christ freely accepts His role as Lord and master, using those concepts to drive home His main point. Those who claim the name of Jesus ought to follow His example.
Priesthood is servant-hood highlights the importance of humility, sacrifice, and service in priesthood roles. Serving others is not just a duty, but a way to fulfill one's calling and to demonstrate a genuine love for God and one's fellow human beings.
In essence, the statement that priesthood is servant-hood highlights that priesthood is not about wielding authority for personal gain, but about using that authority to serve others and reflect the example of Christ.
According to the words of consecration, servant is a synonym for priesthood. Any other interpretation on our part will receive the same words that the Lord said to Peter when he tried to redefine the mission of Jesus and devoid it of sacrifice, servant-hood, love and suffering, “Get behind me, Satan” (Mt. 16: 23)
Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:28
Servant-hood is the daily obedience of giving yourself to those around you, remembering that these actions are worshiping the Lord
Servant-hood is the narrow road to real leadership. Powerful leaders are always servants at heart. They understand that there is a price to pay.
“The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus. When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus Christ.” — St. John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests.
What is special about priesthood?
The priesthood is a call from Christ to a relationship with Him which is grounded on discipleship & service to his people. The priest is called to become transparent, so that it is Christ who is seen through them. In so doing, the priest is blessed with their own fulfillment and sanctification.
35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all." Mark 9:35?
What are the four pillars of priesthood?
In Catholic seminary training we speak of priestly formation which involves the integration of four areas (academic, pastoral, spiritual and human formation), all directed towards the unique vocation of configuration to Christ to act in his person as head and pastor of the Church and in the name of the whole people of God as conferred in the Sacrament of Holy Orders.
What is the spiritual meaning of priesthood?
In short, the priest is the representative of the sinner in things pertaining to God. He is the mediator whose office it is to meet and satisfy the claims of God upon those for whom he acts, and who secures the pardon and the favor which the offender must have, if he is to enjoy fellowship with God.
Priesthood Is Servant-hood
What This Does Not Mean
Fr. Philip and Amma Charlene Kneel in Front of The Altar: We are Never More In The Service of Our God Than When We Are In The Service of Our Fellow Man
Priesthood is servant-hood needs clarification not just in terms of what it is intended to mean but also what it should NOT mean. It does not mean that clergy are to be or be treated as doormats!
Any relationship that counts on one side always having to ‘turn the other cheek’ is toxic. Clergy are called to serve and to lead. Clergy should model proper self care, including boundary setting and standing up for themselves as well as the young and vulnerable in their care.
Do not tolerate toxic behavior from others towards yourself or towards others in your charge. As clergy we set the tone and serve as the example for those in our congregation. Polite and professional yes but don’t be afraid to be firm when needed.
The key to successful ministry often rests in setting and maintaining a balance between service and leadership. Balance between the areas of academic, pastoral, spiritual and humanities. Balance between serving the congregation through the sacraments, ministry works and calling people to follow the expectations of our faith. Sometimes outright calling people out for their behaviors.
Clergy often need to shift between uplifting and correcting. Try to follow the old adage to praise publicly and correct privately. On rare occasions we have no choice but to make corrections in public or en masse with those in our congregation.
Still we must do all these things as lovingly as possible. Call out the act, confirm love for the person, goes a long way.
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