(By Deacon Doug Lenz)
In this Sunday’s second reading, St. Paul instructs the Philippians, “Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also for those of others.” This is such an important reminder of what it looks like to be a disciple of Jesus. While our human tendency is often to think first of ME, as Christians we are called to look outside of ourselves and to see and respond to the needs of those around us. This is a tall order, no doubt. I think it goes without saying that it is easier said than done. And then St. Paul takes it a step further by saying, “Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus.”
This weekend we celebrate Priesthood Sunday, which is celebrated throughout the United States. Priesthood Sunday provides a unique opportunity for lay Catholics to express their love and appreciation for the men who have responded “Yes” to the call to Christ’s holy priesthood. This is a call to place others first, to be of service to the faithful, like St. Paul encouraged. Through our priests, “the presence of Christ as head of the Church is made visible in midst of the community of believers” (CCC, 1549). Throughout our lives, in both joy and sorrow, our God walks with us in a very tangible way through our priests.
Here at St. Frances Cabrini, we have been abundantly blessed. We have a beautiful space to worship, a talented and welcoming community who generously give of themselves, a long history filled with meaningful traditions, and we are led by one of the finest pastors many of us have had the privilege of knowing. Fr. Damian models what St. Paul urged in his letter – namely, an “other” focus. Fr. Damian exemplifies and models what it means to meet people where they are, with humility and charity. He works tirelessly to meet the needs of individual parishioners, couples and families. He is present at some of the most critical milestones in our lives: baptisms, weddings, anniversaries, funerals and many others. His presence brings peace and comfort, and always conveys his unwavering commitment to the people who have been entrusted to his care. He sees both you and me with the eyes of Jesus and loves us with the heart of Jesus. This is what a priest is called to do, and he seems to do it with such ease.
For me and so many others, Fr. Damian is also a wonderful mentor. He models what it is to be an authentic Christian man and faith-filled leader. He avoids harsh words and always looks to find the best in everyone. He is quick to compromise and seems to have no desire to have the “last word”. His confidence in the “slow work of God” seems to be unflappable, even in the most stressful and contentious situations. He is kind and gentle with his words and his actions. I was asked at one point by my wife, “Who does Father Damian remind you of?” After a few moments attempting to discover who she might be hinting at, I replied “Jesus!” Yes, for me, Fr. Damian has given me multiple glimpses of who Jesus is and what Jesus does. I am blessed beyond belief!
While Father is not a fan of much attention, I know I am not alone in desiring to share my heartfelt appreciation for all he does to teach, challenge and support us in becoming the people God created us to be. His powerful homilies, insightful pastoral letters, and quick smile and laugh, inspire and soften hearts for Christ. Please join with me this weekend in thanking Father for the gift that he is to all of us. Even more so, please join me in thanking God for the gift of the priesthood, for calling men who are responding to work in the vineyard of Christ, and for loving us in a particular way through our pastor, Fr. Damian!
Peace and Blessings!
Deacon Doug