For the last six years I have spent my days praying, studying, allowing myself to be formed by the seminary staff, and in general preparing for the day that I would be called to serve the people of God as an ordained priest. During that time my mind would occasionally wander to what the future had in store for me; celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of Mass, rushing to the hospital to hear a confession before an impending death occurred, and many other Hollywood-esque scenarios that highlighted the excitement of the priesthood.

Since being ordained, I have been put in such scenarios, but I find myself reflecting on the less ‘exciting’ moments of joy as the part of my day that sustains me through the more difficult situations. For example, it is sad to see the anguish of a woman who just lost her husband to an illness after years of suffering, despite the knowledge that he had received the sacraments to prepare himself. Also, the numerous meetings that I am responsible to sit in and ensure that the particular committee or organization is doing their part to forward the mission of the parish do, at times, get rather tedious.

So, where is it that I find myself being lifted up emotionally? My joy comes in speaking with the people of God after the morning Mass or in saying goodbye to the schoolchildren at the end of the day. My sense of fulfillment is satisfied every time I speak the words of absolution in the confessional or counsel a couple preparing for marriage. Since beginning my assignment I have come to the realization that my happiness won’t be a product of the occasional emergency situation. My experience reminds me of the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19, as he found that God was encountered in the light silent sound rather than the strong violent wind, earthquake, or fire. I expected to find the Lord in the grand events of priestly ministry but instead I find that He gives me peace and consolation in the ordinary moments of parish ministry and as I faithfully serve His flock.

–A newly ordained Catholic priest