"He is Our Priest"

Last weekend, I was honored to preside at the Marriage Liturgy and witness the exchange of vows of my brother and sister-in-law. After the ceremony, the bridal party was subjected to a barrage of photos. When the photographer saw me join in the photos, he asked the bride how I was related to her.

"Ryan is the brother of the groom. But he is also our priest."

He is our priest. This phrase captures for me the experience thus far of being ordained a priest and serving the People of God in the local Church of Scranton. This phrase points to the joy I've felt in being able to be a priest with and for others. There have been so many moments of grace, laughter, love, and peace during my brief time in this particular ministry. It is overwhelming, in the best sense of the word!

He is our priest. This phrase is also a challenge to me. It is a reminder that I must always remain close to others. It is an invitation to patiently journey alongside fellow Christians, with men and women of other faiths, and with non-believers. It means I am called to be selfless in my ministry and to collaborate with other ministers, especially lay and religious. I am summoned to be a priest for others, to love without conditions, and to serve the needs of the poor and the suffering.

He is our priest. This will always remain true, as long as I follow the gentle and compassionate ways of our High Priest: Jesus Christ!