Catholic Diocese of Spokane, Washington

The Bishop Writes

(From the Sept. 30, 2004 edition of the Inland Register)

Every fall, usually near the end of September, the priests of the diocese gather for some serious sharing and relaxation. Sometimes the gathering takes shape as a more formal learning experience; other times, as was the case this past week, the priests come together to share with one another about their life and ministry. We try to gather somewhere away from the city of Spokane itself. Last year we came to Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, but the feeling among the priests was that being close to the city makes it too easy for other activities and obligations to distract and break into the schedule. In years past we’ve met in Sandpoint, Idaho, and Nelson, B.C., and in Washington in Clarkston and the Tri-Cities. This year we were in Wenatchee, in the Yakima Diocese.

Forty-eight priests were at the assembly this week. The format is fairly simple. We come together on Monday afternoon by 2 p.m., spend three hours in session, and conclude with a social and dinner. On Tuesday and Wednesday, there is a morning session beginning with Morning Prayer at 8. The session concludes with Mass at about noon. The afternoons and evenings are free on these two days, with a social gathering in later afternoon before dinner. Activities such as golf, hiking, biking, and sight-seeing are some options available as the priests relax and enjoy one another’s company.

Thursday morning usually includes my report on the state of the diocese and an opportunity to address any issues the group might have. This year, Dr. Duane Schafer, the diocese’s Superintendent of Schools, presented a workshop on the new materials for the safe environment program, helping us protect children and young people, as we move ahead with its implementation. The last morning concludes with Mass and lunch, and then everyone heads home.

Usually each gathering has a particular theme. Sometimes more input is given, and at other times the priests themselves will do the sharing as they learn from one other. For some time now the priests’ council has been concerned about the sense of fraternity among the priests themselves. Priestly ministry can be hectic and demanding. Busy schedules and geography leave little opportunity for us priests to grow in relationship with one another. A relatively small number of priests gives us an advantage, in that we’re better able to get to know one another.

One of common challenges in dioceses all around the country, I know, has been the relationship between the priests and their bishop. For me, attending the assembly is a must. I not only enjoy the break away from the regular routine, but also I have the opportunity to chat with them over breakfast or a social. That situation is far different from a parish visit, when I come for the celebration of Eucharist and/or Confirmation.

Relationships amongst the priests can be a challenge from several standpoints. There can be differences in theological outlooks, ethnicity, age, and personal background. This year the organizing committee decided that it would be good for us to learn more about one another. How did we do that?

Each priest was to respond to four questions, sharing his answers with the group: Why did I want to become a priest? What were some significant events during my years of formation in the seminary? What sustains me in my ministry as a priest? And finally, what are my greatest challenges in ministry?

Monday afternoon, and the mornings of Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, were taken up with personal sharing, so that every priest present could respond to these four questions. I found their sharing to be wonderful. I found myself wishing that everyone in the diocese could have listened to these men who have dedicated their lives in service to the church, to God’s people. Each shared his story. Many of those stories demonstrated remarkable examples of the movement of the Holy Spirit in vocational discernment and maturation in ministry.

Even though many of us have known one another and ministered closely with one another for a number of years, we heard stories about one another we had never heard before. Some stories discussed the many different types of struggles priests face. Others were about the joy of ministry and the power of prayer and sacraments in their lives, especially Eucharist. Some wondered about approaching older age and what that meant, while others acknowledged they were just getting their feet wet in priestly service. In one way or another, all of the priests expressed a human journey touched by God’s grace, and a remarkable commitment to continue to serve in challenging times.

This is the vocation issue of The Inland Register. Each of us has a vocation in life, but the sharing of the priests this week in Wenatchee gave witness to the powerful call of God through human beings, each unique in his own way. If I may judge the reaction of the priests in general, I think there was a great growth in our appreciation and knowledge of one another as we concluded our time together. I hope the experience will assist all of us as we grow in fraternity and support of one another, that we might better serve all of God’s people. I ask your prayers for that intention.

I am especially grateful after listening to the priests as they shared their stories the past three days. The presbyterate continues to inspire and encourage me in my own ministry.

May we all continue to pray for vocations to Religious life and priesthood, that those called by God will respond generously to the invitation to be servants of God’s people.

Much peace and joy to all of you.