Priests “Five and Under” Meet with Cardinal Leo

"Brothers and sisters, we have this treasure in clay vessels, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us." (2 Cor 4: 7)

Today's First Reading from the Mass provides a moving and accurate description of the gift we have received through Ordination to the Holy Priesthood. It was proclaimed at the closing Mass for the 2024/2025 Five and Under Program, presided over by His Eminence Frank Cardinal Leo. Over 25 priests ordained five years or less take part in an overnight bi-monthly gathering at St. Augustine's Seminary. It is a privileged opportunity to come together to pray, learn, listen and build fraternity. Various speakers are invited to help us grow in our priestly identity. Each provides us with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of who we are and how to live this unmerited gift in the context of our post-Christian secular society.

His Eminence distributed copies of Pope Leo's homily for the Presbyteral ordinations which took place on May 31, the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. One line in particular summarizes the theme of this past year of formation. "Imitate Jesus! Being of God, servants of God, people of God-connects us to the earth: not to an ideal world, but to the real one. Like Jesus, you meet real people who the Father places on your path." The Cardinal provided a very precise and practical exegesis as to how we priests are called to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ in our Archdiocese of Toronto. We are all grateful to God for His Eminence's ministry. The photo was taken after Mass in honour of St Anthony of Padua. Please pray for our priests and for an increase in vocations to Holy Orders and religious life!

Reflection from Fr. Peter Turrone