Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests (Ascension)

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Chapter 3: Human Formation

his people without seeking for himself. 102 The people are not given to him for his sake. Yet, in his giving of himself for them, he comes into a genuine friendship with his people, which naturally helps the priest grow as a man. A healthy priest will have respectful friendship with his people and allow them to form him into a better man and minister. 125 Above all, friendship with brother priests enjoys a unique place in our lives. The Second Vatican Council taught that each priest is united in special bonds of apostolic charity, ministry, and brotherhood with the other members of this priesthood. This bond has been manifested from ancient times in the liturgy, when the priests present at an ordination are invited to impose hands together with the ordaining bishop on the new candidate and, with united hearts, to concelebrate the Eucharist. Each and every priest, therefore, is united with his fellow priests in a bond of charity, prayer, and total cooperation. In this manner, they manifest that unity which Christ willed, namely, that his own be perfected in one so that the world might know that the Son was sent by the Father. 103 126 All priests, especially those united in a common presbyterate, should endeavor to be friends. Priests who strive to find common ground with diocesan brothers despite differences in age, experiences, or viewpoints seldom regret the effort. In addition to these broader friendships, most priests also have a handful of closer friends with whom they can share their joys and struggles. The best friendships are typically the result of a conscious choice on the part of both individuals to make it work. Some priests by temperament will be better at this than others, but all can learn. This effort means intentionally finding common interests, being open to deeper 102 “The gift of self has no limits, marked as it is by the same apostolic and missionary zeal of Christ, the good shepherd, who said: ‘And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd’ (Jn 10:16).” PDV, no. 23. 103 See PO, no. 8.

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