Most priests when asked assert that their own morale is high but that the morale of priests in general is low. Cecero addresses this discrepancy and others as well as he presents a practical, informative and inspiring approach to help priests flourish.
The program gives useful tips on how to maintain physical, psychological and spiritual health. It reveals the dangers of “secondary strain” that come from helping others in their desperate need. Combining classic Ignatian spirituality with modern psychology, he explains how to avoid life’s traps, to have a spirit of detachment and to embrace Christ and His dream for a sanctified world. To do this the priest must embrace his sacramental identity while taking on a role of service for humanity. The priest is more than just a celibate social worker but must become “another Christ.”
To realize this, there is a need for prayer, meditation, study, reading, and allowing time when we can experience moments of transcendence by being alone. He reminds us of the need for sacramental signs like the cross, medals or other objects that remind us of what a priest is all about and that God is in control. In the process of life, a priest will understand his own limitations and unworthiness in his call and broken he is. He will discover, however, Christ is with him in his sufferings and his joys.
CDAH553
3 CDs, 3 hours of presentation
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Author: |
Rev. John Cecero, SJ, PhD |
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Copyright: |
2006 |