Clergy

The Priesthood: Sharing in the Ministry of Christ, the Great Healer of Souls

"The priesthood is a ministry of healing, of making whole that which is broken, of reuniting that which has been separated." - Metropolitan Kallistos Ware

In the Eastern Christian tradition, the priesthood is not merely a ceremonial office or a position of authority, but a profound participation in the ministry of Jesus Christ, the Great High Priest and Healer of Souls. As St. John Chrysostom wrote, "The priesthood is a ministry greater than that of the angels, for it is the priesthood of Christ Himself."

Every Christian, by virtue of their baptism, shares in the priesthood of Christ. We are all called to offer our lives as a spiritual sacrifice, to intercede for the world, and to bear witness to the healing and transforming power of God's love. This common priesthood is the foundation of our life together as the Body of Christ.

Within this common priesthood, there is also a special ministry of the ordained priesthood. Through the sacrament of Holy Orders, certain members of the Church are set apart to serve as icons of Christ, the Good Shepherd, and to minister His grace and healing to the people of God.

The primary focus of the ordained priesthood is the healing of souls. In a world that is wounded by sin, division, and suffering, the priest is called to be a minister of reconciliation, a healer of the broken heart, and a guide on the path to wholeness and holiness.

This healing ministry takes many forms. In the celebration of the sacraments, especially in the mystery of Confession, the priest helps the faithful to encounter the forgiving and restoring love of God. In the preaching of the Word, the priest proclaims the truth that sets us free from the bondage of sin and death. In the pastoral care of the community, the priest offers counsel, consolation, and encouragement to those who are struggling or in need.

At the heart of the priesthood is the call to be a living icon of Christ's compassion and love. As St. John of Kronstadt wrote, "The priest is an earthly angel and a heavenly man, one who belongs entirely to God, and who inspires others to be God's."

At the Church of America, we are blessed to have a clergy who embody this vision of the priesthood. Our priests are not just celebrants of the sacraments, but true shepherds of souls, who walk with us in our joys and sorrows, our triumphs and struggles. They are men of prayer, wisdom, and compassion, who help us to grow in our baptismal identity as priests, prophets, and kings.

We invite you to come and experience the healing ministry of the priesthood in our community. Whether you are seeking the grace of the sacraments, the guidance of spiritual direction, or simply the fellowship of a loving community, our priests are here to serve you and to support you on your journey of faith.

May the Lord continue to bless and strengthen our priests, and may He inspire all of us to embrace our share in His royal priesthood, for the healing of souls and the glory of His Name.