Look at this scenario!
He stood up to preach in one of the daily weekday's evening Masses. The first thing he asked the congregation to do was to go ask someone "How was your day?".
Everyone went around asking, shaking and patting each others back. Some even hugged themselves!
I smiled as I saw it all. Guess what, no one came to the priest to ask that simple question 'How was your day?'. Yet! he was tired and it had been a really hard day for him.
Priests and Medical doctors may have something in common- people believe they are fine as long as they are breathing!
You are quick to ask your priest; "Are you praying for me?" But have you ever told him "I am praying for you".
You know how to accuse the priest of not visiting you but have you ever stopped by to check on him?
You tell the priest that you are going on vacation but have you ever wondered when last he had a break?
Your priest smiles at you telling you "It is well with you" when at times, it is a prophecy for himself.
A priest can officiate a wedding just after consoling a bereaved family (Can you imagine that emotional switch- yet he must be stable).
Your priest is human too! Trust me, there are days he did not feel like coming to church to celebrate the Eucharist with all of you but he still did! Some of the lovely cassocks covers the pains.
There are stories of priests who quit because of depression (true!). Everyone knows how to fault a Priest but not many know he has pains of his own. Everyone knows how to judge a Priest's action but not everyone want him to discipline them even if its part of his duty!
You can put a smile on your priest's face!! Appreciate your Priest. Buy gifts for your priests'. Send words and messages of love and encouragement to him. Seriously, when last did you call your priests just to wish them well and ask how they are? Distance is not a barrier!!!!!
Remember, he has the generous job of watching over your spiritual well being. The happier and more stable he is, the better he will discharge his duties! Help your Priest to succeed!
I have simply told you what some Priest may never say!. Trust me! You can start by sharing this with others!
God bless our Priests!📽
Or ur parish pastor .