From Our Pastor: Ten Years A Priest

Ten years a priest. I just can’t imagine it’s been that long, but at the same time some days I think, “It’s only been ten?!” What a wild ride it has been!!!

I love being a priest. Even on the worst days, when things are overwhelming or awful, priesthood is just so good. It’s such a privilege and an honor. To follow what God called me to, as long as I can remember I wanted to be a priest, is so fulfilling. To be able to bring the living God to be present with His people is such a privilege. The sacraments sustain us and support us, but from a Priest’s perspective, not only do they keep us going, they are such an intimate experience to be there in all the sacramental moments of your life.

To walk with each of you in your difficulties and celebrate with you in your joys is such an honor. To be a part of your families and lives in such a deep and intimate way is such a gift. I am so grateful for the multitudes of people and places I have been sent to serve. I am so grateful for the immense generosity of so many people along the way.

There are days where you have nothing left to give, and then you’re called to give more and out of nowhere you have the something to give you didn’t think possible. THAT is where not only the Holy Spirit that we celebrate this Pentecost shows up, but He shows up I believe because that is when someone from my parish or previous assignments or in my life growing up prays for me. Your prayers sustain me and that generous spirit is what is so uplifting by each and everyone of you.

I have had the craziest of experiences and the most awesome of moments because of priesthood. I have met a few famous people along the way, but who I enjoy most is meeting the most unknown saints. I have encountered some of the holiest little saints, usually really young kids or really old people, that inspire me to live a holier life because of their immense holiness.

There are saints among us. If you’re thinking, “Fr. that’s not me!”, you inspire me because even in your sinfulness and brokenness you’re allowing the Lord to work in you and His grace to transform you and you don’t give up! That’s so inspiring to hear the stories of sanctifying moments in each of your lives. I have come so far in my own personal spiritual journey of faith. And much of the inspiration for me to be better is from all of you.

Thank you to the Lord God for this gift of priesthood. Thank you to the Blessed Mother who watches over me with motherly care. Thank you to my parents, grandparents, siblings, and family for your immense support and love these many years. Thank you to the Church for the opportunities to serve. Thank you to each and everyone of you reading this for the journey we are on together. I am immensely grateful.

Priesthood is amazing! Guys, consider this life! Pray for more priests! Encourage your children, and pray for them to consider priesthood. It’s the most amazing life I could have ever imagined. I knew it was going to be good, but it’s been better than I dreamed! Thank you Jesus for giving me this gift to share! This Pentecost, live out the life the Holy Spirit is inspiring you to in how to follow Jesus. For several in this parish, I know it should be priesthood. And they won’t regret it!

- Rev. Steven Arisman