We had a new priest who made everyone at Mass cry. It was his first Mass and right before he said the words of consecration he choked up and tears came to his eyes. We all knew he truly believed and was overwhelmed by what God was going to do through him. A+ evangelization right there!
I thought I was going to raise my son to be in love with God and maybe be called to a priesthood, but he just got diagnosed with autism. I will raise the same way and hopefully he can serve the Lord in a different way
Don't worry his autism does not block the possibility to a priestly vocation. God could be calling him but just to make sure get the Spiritual Exercises of St.Ignatius.
I'm autistic and also called to the priesthood. Have no worries about it: autism causes struggles, but it's not a barrier between him and priestly life.
I’m currently discerning priesthood and it’s a struggle. The call to love a woman with all my heart and lead her to heaven as she leads me is strong, but so is the call to serve Christ’s Body in such a potent way.
Hello Connor. Here are God's requirements for his ministers. "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach..." 1 Timothy 3:2 "... appoint elders in every city as I directed you, namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion." Titus 1:5-6 (In the New Testament the only terms used for God's ministers are overseer, deacon or bishop and they are always required to be married. Please read the comment that I just sent to this video. God bless you. I believe you'd make an excellent Pastor. Believe me Connor, the celibacy requirement is completely man made and Good Almighty had nothing to do with it.
@@rolandovelasquez135 **“The celibacy requirement is completely man-made.”** Your assertion contradicts the Word of God. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus Christ speaks of those who choose to be celibate for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 19:12,: "For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others--and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.'"
@@rolandovelasquez135 St Paul said it is better not to marry. He said this because a priest who is married has a split responsibility to his family and the Church. Jesus said some are eunuchs by birth but some are to the glory of God as He was. He spoke of celibacy. There is a higher calling in the Catholic Church; to him that is given much; much will be demanded. Jesus is the high priest so wouldn't it follow His priests would follow Him by celibacy?
I think if anyone is going into the priesthood because they think it's the highest vocation should be barred. You should want to be a priest because God calls you into it realizing you are nothing without God and s total servant who pours themselves out for others. This is why we are in the mess we are in. The priesthood is not higher than marriage or the single life. This elitism is not in the image of God. Christ humbled himself. Anyone being a priest needs this same attitude to let the Holy Spirit work through him.
@@zturners3838 Indeed, the priesthood is a vocation just like being married or single is. However, I think in this post Vatican II culture we downplay the priesthood. We, like the Protestants, want to elevate ourselves as though we're just as important to the Mass as the priest is. In case you didn't know, originally the Mass was designed so that the priest did not rely on the laity being present. That's how it was, and if we the lay faithful want to foster humility amongst ourselves, that's what it should return to.
@@TheZeroSbr Absolutely agree with you. And the other commentary as well.... It SHOULD be a calling. Yet, people in all of history from the OT to now been equal to a priest then NT, bishops, cardinal etc. Though we are in spirit some now show no respect, reverence or understand completely what it is to be part of the Apostolic Succession. I don't think anyone here is wrong except if we don't understand hierarchy the priesthood life and how though we are forever faithful we cannot , on our own, celebrate mass. Excerpt from St. Ignatius of Antioch Smyrnæans - Ignatius See that ye all follow the bishop, even as Jesus Christ does the Father, and the presbytery as ye would the apostles; and reverence the deacons, as being the institution [1027] of God. Let no man do anything connected with the Church without the bishop. Let that be deemed a proper [1028] Eucharist, which is [administered] either by the bishop, or by one to whom he has entrusted it.
Typical RC seminary doesn't teach true Orthodox Catholic doctrine.. Very tragic now there are priests and Bishops that are very confused and misled about celibacy and true nature of priesthood.
Dr Hahn is again spot on. Yes, 'fatherhood' is not just a biological longing. Young men need to experience and learn what this 'form' of Fatherhood is, and unfortunately, there hasn't been many good examples for them to know what it is. Bishops also need to be good fathers and when this is not presented to the diocese, the role lacks a role model to expose the mystery of the priesthood. 🕊
I love reading these comments. So many positive and God loving people. I grew up hearing my elders and in media (movies) how sad, mad, and disappointed fathers were to hear or even anyone mentioning their son becoming a priest. I myself am at peace and would be joyful giving thanks if my last youngest son, ( my eldest ones have moved on) would decide to serve our Father in the priesthood.
Love the Lord with all the heart and with your soul, in celibacy, chastity, obedience, poverty ...everything as the servant for Jesus Christ. Thank you for living your priestly life for God
Father Mike's testimony is beautiful and so heartfelt. Hearts speak to hearts. I thank God for your vocation as you have a powerful gift of the Holy Spirit. God Bless all of our priests and those who are discerning a vocation. May His grace and peace settle on you and guide you. 🙏
Thank you so much father Mike for your lessons. They are very upbeat and informative. I'm becoming a Catholic in San Diego and they have been very helpful in my conversion process.
Before you start "wishing" or better praying, you should read at least one of the following three books: "Goodbye, Good Men", "The Rite of Sodomy" and "The Lavender Mafia", all written TWENTY years ago about the infestation of homosexuals in the seminary and clergy. Most Novus Ordo seminaries are "pink palaces", full of sodomites. Are you sure you "wish" your son was a priest? Please pray the Rosary DAILY and ask for discernment.
From the book " To Save a Thousand of Souls " by fr Brett Brannen I believe one of the problems in the Church today is that many people are in the wrong vocation. Many people have grown up unaware that they have a vocation, much less that they should be asking God to reveal it to them. And there are many unhappy, unfulfilled, dissatisfied people. As a general rule, people flourish in their correct vocation! Flourishing does not just mean they are happy. It means they are steadily growing in holiness, they are fulfilled, and they are becoming the person God wants them to be. Fr. Brian Bashista, vocation director of the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, underscores that vocation is less about personal choice and more about discovery.
Eternal Father, please send us Holy Priest's, all for the Sacred Heart of Jesus, all for the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, in union with St Joseph 🙏 Thank You Dear Jesus for Fr Mike and his Brother's in the Priesthood 🙏 Viva Cristo Rey 🙏
Tonight I asked my 15 Yr old if he would ever think of priesthood. We live in Northern Ireland. He said no but I planted a seed of thinking like I did with my oldest who will be 23 soon. U plant an option.
Funny that in the Latin Mass, there is never any confusion about transubstantiation, even though the Mass is said in Latin, which people supposedly do not understand. Funny also that the New Mass is so similar in form to that of Thomas Cranmer, in the protestant revolt in England. Hmmm.... Can we connect the dots here?
ALL vocations are vital for the Mystical Body of Christ to thrive in our world. Priests administer the sacraments, which in turn sanctifies and strengthens us to live a grace-filled life. The universal call to holiness is real...we ALL must strive to be holy, prudent and courageous partakers of the sacraments and the Gospel.
I was a Capuchin at one time. I left when I met my wife. I may not be able to live in a Religious community. I can however, remain a Franciscan and I can be a Permanent Deacon. Both of which I will continue to pursue in my life.
I once strongly considered the priesthood; I even spent four years in seminary and earned a BA in philosophy. I personally consider my decision to enter seminary to be one of the worst mistakes I've ever made and I wish I could take it back. I lost a lot of time, a lot of money, and ultimately my faith. My story isn't unique either. Think very carefully before going to seminary, there's a strong possibility you'll regret it if you go.
With the shortage of priests, one might considered allowing some Deacons or married men to pursue priesthood. Converted Protestant ministers are allowed to become priests.
From the book "To Save a Thousand of Souls " by fr Brett Brannen The Vocational Pre-Determination by God When I was a vocation director, I would visit the Catholic schools in my diocese to teach the children about vocations. I explained to them that before God had even created the world, he knew them and he loved them. He already knew your name, he knew every thought you would ever think, he knew how many hairs were on your head, he knew your sins, he knew your good deeds, and he even saw the moment of your death and your entrance into heaven. And God had already decided your vocation before he had even made the world! Or at least, he had already planned to which vocation you would be called. When it finally became time for you to be born, God created your soul to go inside your tiny body, and it was created specifically for that pre-determined vocation. I call this concept the vocational pre-determination by God, or vocational pre-destination. If God is calling you to marriage, then he prepared your soul and gave you the gifts of body and soul to live out the vocation of marriage. If God is calling you to priesthood, then your soul and body were made with that vocation in mind. This will be an important hint for you as you discern. Look at the gifts God has given to you and where those gifts are best used to build up the Kingdom.
Just finished listening. I'm kind of surprised you didn't address what is probably the biggest obstacle for most normal godly men to entering the Roman Catholic priesthood, i.e., the huge problem of homosexuality in said institution. Not one single word!
Maybe you could discuss this matter which concerns you a great deal, with a priest and receive the Light of Truth and feel deep peace about it. God bless your path. 🙏😊
I can't even imagine being celibate for life, and feel like it would bring more temptations to sin. That's the main reason I decided the priesthood wasn't for me, among a few other things.
I know this is for males, but I can't help but question why you would have to "discern" such an important vocational call. When God wants you to do something it's a very clear, unambiguous directive and/or in-the-Spirit knowing or answer that He gives you. So, I would think all one would have to do is just ask Him. On a side note, I, too, wanted to be a saint! I wanted to be St. Francis of Assisi and have all the animals flock all around me because of all of my obvious and overt holiness, lol. I think that might be every Catholic kid's dream:) Alas, that one was dashed by the development of severe allergies to animals, smh. And, me too, again! I'ld walk to the convent and hang out with the Sisters and the Priests all the time. I liked being around them. I've often thought about becoming a nun...everytime God has been like, "NO". Smh. I have to admit, I can see why...I would be an awful nun and/or sister, I'ld be getting reprimanded all the time... Anyways, being a servant of God in such an intimate way, that's such a beautiful calling. I'll pray a prayer of clarity for those trying to discern, God bless.
God calls but perhaps we are not so good at hearing. And the only thing that matters is His will. What we want is secondary at most, unless all we want is His Will. God Bless
Don't ever underestimate your beauty in the Body of Christ. Self depreciating is not humility. It's persecution of the Body of Christ. You are more than just a conquer; more than a Joan of Arc in Christ. Burn not at the stake but set a fire in your heart to its dilation.
@@eduardohoover2127 The orange and red flame from the stake burns and consumes so that the green and white flame of the heart is exposed to enrich and nourish. The pain of the stake hurts quite a bit and I sometimes do forget it's purpose. Thank you, I very much appreciate and needed to hear your comment. I'll heed it.
@@josephjackson1956 Discernment is looking at someone, seeing into their heart, and knowing their intentions and pain. Discernment is a form of non-judmental spiritual guidance that is given to you in order that you are able to serve that person and help them a little bit along their path. Asking God is as it sounds, it's asking God.
Pls.pray the rosary and devine mercy chaplet to free all countries from war, diseases, calamities, hunger, corruption, drugs, prostitution, abortion,homosexuality,pornography,euthanasia, divorce, child abuse,terrorism,slavery, corruption, communism and all evils.pls pray for peace and joy in all families and home. . . . .
I studied Theology online at st josephs Maine, st Francis ohio and holy apostles . I will no longer be studing theology anymore. Its better just to do it your own.
Every where else its Mike. May be a misprint. If he were Irish it may be Mick but I think he is Germen Mike (sometimes Italian - Mick if he were Michelangelo).
Must be so difficult now to be a RC priest that believes and preaches BIBLE. What tragedy beyond words that the HOLY EUCHARIST can now be given to RC that aid and support abortion. A number of conservative RC priests have been silenced by the Bishops.
Visited a seminary years ago with my parish priest. I was surprised at what I saw. Seemed like most of the seminarians and priests there were a bit effeminate. Visited again a few months later and that second time my first impression was more than confirmed. I am now 68 and I've studied the matter and I'm convinced that the Lord God Almighty who made heaven and earth had nothing to do with the celibacy requirement. It was totally man made and has wreaked havoc in the Roman Church for the last eight centuries. Said church is, especially now, reaping the disastrous consequences. In principle, the best young Catholic men would not be able to participate in that system.
I was in the Redemptorist seminary back in mid 1970s....I didn't go on to the RC priesthood. I am Pentecostal in focus....even in 1970s I was evangelical due to Rev Billy Graham. Now the RCC had really gone astray....Holy Eucharist is allowed to be given to RC that aid and abett abortion......even contradicting Canon Law. Divorced and remarried RC cannot receive Holy Eucharist..
Jesus is the high priest. He said some are eunuchs from birth others to the glory of God. He spoke of His own celibacy. Wouldn't it follow His priests follow His example. St Paul said it's better not to marry. He said this because a married priest has two obligations to his family and then the Church. Your judgement of effeminate is highly contentious. These men are not taking female hormones or contemplating sex changes and transgender identification. You connect dots of coincidence and call it fact without acknowledging the Church's battle with Satan as real as the Blessed Sacrament. Don't mistake effeminate with spirituality.
@@michaelciccone2194 I even heard sinners can receive the Eucharist. The RC even believes Christ ate and drank with publican, tax collectors and prostitutes. Have you heard such rubbish. The RC believe their first pope was a cussing fisherman. There seems to be a lot of sacrilege going on among them. I'm glad you're not a sinner and able to cast judgements. Foolish sinners cast rocks in their glass houses.
I do not know why people think never marrying or having children is the worst possible thing. I think marriage and family are God's design and beautiful but some people have no inclination towards marriage nor do they desire children. Maybe celibacy makes them effeminate. I suspect that some LGBTQIA+ Catholic men use the priesthood to escape the judgment of people from wondering why they do not have a girlfriend or wife. People do get suspicious about single people past a certain age. Maybe everyone is supposed to have sex and it is natural to abstain from that earthly pleasure and gift.
So, Dude, I would totally like to become a saint. That's one of my life goals but I suspect there may be hidden vanity in my reasoning. I would like to become a nun or a sister but I think a little too boy crazy. Who knows what God has in store for me?
I don't like Scott Hahn saying marriage is the highest calling. It's not. All callings are difficult because we have to die to ourselves. This idea puts division between single and married people in the church. This elitism is the source of all problems in the church. Anyone who is RC must have the same posture as Christ who didn't see equality with God as something to be grasped but poured himself out as a slave. I have heard many RC's say we have the Eucharist, we are the true church, we are persecuted, etc. The attitude is if people don't get it it's their problem. This is elitism. I tell all my Protestant friends I'm RC because it gives me total union with the Trinity through Jesus Christ. I am becoming Christ therefore part of the Trinity now, here on earth to bring love, mercy and peace to the world one person at a time and not only to my family. Let's bring the Kingdom here to earth on our way to heaven. Trust me when I say there are a lot of people who need the Kingdom here on earth and I believe with my whole heart it's possible. I just wish more people would join me in this mission instead of thinking about getting to heaven only.
The Church, the Body of Christ,was founded by our Lord to love God and our neighbors. The Apostles and their successors are indeed the agents of Christ to preach the Good News and dispense the mysteries of mercy. It’s all in the NT.
We all are to know, love and serve God, and glorify Him by doing his will here on earth as well as in heaven after we have passed. This command by Our Almighty and Heavenly Father includes the Pope. He would place himself in serious mortal danger not doing the same. God bless your path. 🙏😊
![[ ออกกอง ] วัยหนุ่ม 2544 โลกหลังลูกกรง..ทัวร์กองถ่ายหนังใน "คุกของจริง" | JUSTดูIT.](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vB--aOkZCpw/mqdefault.jpg)
I went to confession after 32 years. Greatest experience of my life. I smiled on the way out.😊
Hope you're not referring to that bar on the East side... 😂
Holy Confession is a beautiful Sacrament. After a good confession, one really feels relief and refreshed.
Thanks be to God! You should pray the Rosary, Our Lady's guidance really helps us grow in Christ!
Awesome!!! I went too after about 10 years! I need to go again and it'll feel amazing!!^_^
We had a new priest who made everyone at Mass cry. It was his first Mass and right before he said the words of consecration he choked up and tears came to his eyes. We all knew he truly believed and was overwhelmed by what God was going to do through him. A+ evangelization right there!
How beautiful!
I thought I was going to raise my son to be in love with God and maybe be called to a priesthood, but he just got diagnosed with autism.
I will raise the same way and hopefully he can serve the Lord in a different way
Don't worry his autism does not block the possibility to a priestly vocation. God could be calling him but just to make sure get the Spiritual Exercises of St.Ignatius.
Our Father knows all things. He is with you and yours always.
@@pistachios2256 St Ignatius would be a GREAT friend for her son-what a great idea!!
I'm autistic and also called to the priesthood. Have no worries about it: autism causes struggles, but it's not a barrier between him and priestly life.
@@liamcroatt171 Thank you for reassuring me. God bless you
I’m currently discerning priesthood and it’s a struggle. The call to love a woman with all my heart and lead her to heaven as she leads me is strong, but so is the call to serve Christ’s Body in such a potent way.
Hello Connor. Here are God's requirements for his ministers.
"An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach..."
1 Timothy 3:2
"... appoint elders in every city as I directed you, namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion."
Titus 1:5-6
(In the New Testament the only terms used for God's ministers are overseer, deacon or bishop and they are always required to be married.
Please read the comment that I just sent to this video. God bless you. I believe you'd make an excellent Pastor.
Believe me Connor, the celibacy requirement is completely man made and Good Almighty had nothing to do with it.
@@rolandovelasquez135 **“The celibacy requirement is completely man-made.”**
Your assertion contradicts the Word of God. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus Christ speaks of those who choose to be celibate for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Matthew 19:12,: "For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others--and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.'"
@@rolandovelasquez135 Interesting how you heretics sectarians only read what is convinient lol
No woman can measure up to Our Blessed Mother. Let her lead you Connor.
@@rolandovelasquez135 St Paul said it is better not to marry. He said this because a priest who is married has a split responsibility to his family and the Church. Jesus said some are eunuchs by birth but some are to the glory of God as He was. He spoke of celibacy. There is a higher calling in the Catholic Church; to him that is given much; much will be demanded. Jesus is the high priest so wouldn't it follow His priests would follow Him by celibacy?
As a Catholic American young man, I find it interesting that I believe that the vocation of the priesthood is the highest vocation.
Correct. The highest most beautiful, self giving and God serving of vocations.
The highest vocation is the contemplative life, not everyone in the contemplative life is s priest.
I think if anyone is going into the priesthood because they think it's the highest vocation should be barred. You should want to be a priest because God calls you into it realizing you are nothing without God and s total servant who pours themselves out for others. This is why we are in the mess we are in. The priesthood is not higher than marriage or the single life. This elitism is not in the image of God. Christ humbled himself. Anyone being a priest needs this same attitude to let the Holy Spirit work through him.
@@zturners3838 Indeed, the priesthood is a vocation just like being married or single is. However, I think in this post Vatican II culture we downplay the priesthood. We, like the Protestants, want to elevate ourselves as though we're just as important to the Mass as the priest is. In case you didn't know, originally the Mass was designed so that the priest did not rely on the laity being present. That's how it was, and if we the lay faithful want to foster humility amongst ourselves, that's what it should return to.
@@TheZeroSbr Absolutely agree with you. And the other commentary as well.... It SHOULD be a calling. Yet, people in all of history from the OT to now been equal to a priest then NT, bishops, cardinal etc. Though we are in spirit some now show no respect, reverence or understand completely what it is to be part of the Apostolic Succession. I don't think anyone here is wrong except if we don't understand hierarchy the priesthood life and how though we are forever faithful we cannot , on our own, celebrate mass.
Excerpt from St. Ignatius of Antioch
Smyrnæans - Ignatius
See that ye all follow the bishop, even as Jesus Christ does the Father, and the presbytery as ye would the apostles; and reverence the deacons, as being the institution [1027] of God. Let no man do anything connected with the Church without the bishop. Let that be deemed a proper [1028] Eucharist, which is [administered] either by the bishop, or by one to whom he has entrusted it.
Whooo!! I wish my son be a priest too!! He is 16 years old. I’m praying very hard forhim
What is your son's first name I will pray for him.
Thank you
I'm currently considering priesthood.
Will pray for you. Thanks for considering.
Typical RC seminary doesn't teach true Orthodox Catholic doctrine.. Very tragic now there are priests and Bishops that are very confused and misled about celibacy and true nature of priesthood.
🙏🙏🙏for discernment
Read this book " To Save a Thousand of Souls " by fr Brett Brannen
Praying your Bishop and seminary are faithful to Church teachings and free of scandal
Dr Hahn is again spot on. Yes, 'fatherhood' is not just a biological longing. Young men need to experience and learn what this 'form' of Fatherhood is, and unfortunately, there hasn't been many good examples for them to know what it is. Bishops also need to be good fathers and when this is not presented to the diocese, the role lacks a role model to expose the mystery of the priesthood. 🕊
I love reading these comments. So many positive and God loving people.
I grew up hearing my elders and in media (movies) how sad, mad, and disappointed fathers were to hear or even anyone mentioning their son becoming a priest. I myself am at peace and would be joyful giving thanks if my last youngest son, ( my eldest ones have moved on) would decide to serve our Father in the priesthood.
Love the Lord with all the heart and with your soul, in celibacy, chastity, obedience, poverty ...everything as the servant for Jesus Christ. Thank you for living your priestly life for God
Father Mike's testimony is beautiful and so heartfelt. Hearts speak to hearts. I thank God for your vocation as you have a powerful gift of the Holy Spirit. God Bless all of our priests and those who are discerning a vocation. May His grace and peace settle on you and guide you. 🙏
Thank you so much father Mike for your lessons. They are very upbeat and informative. I'm becoming a Catholic in San Diego and they have been very helpful in my conversion process.
I'm so amazed by priests! Let's pray for them 🙏❤
I love hearing Dr. Hahn call his son Father Jeremiah.
The LORD said to my Lord.
Love both of you!! Thanks for wonderful thoughts, wish my son be a priest too.
Before you start "wishing" or better praying, you should read at least one of the following three books: "Goodbye, Good Men", "The Rite of Sodomy" and "The Lavender Mafia", all written TWENTY years ago about the infestation of homosexuals in the seminary and clergy. Most Novus Ordo seminaries are "pink palaces", full of sodomites. Are you sure you "wish" your son was a priest? Please pray the Rosary DAILY and ask for discernment.
Fr. Mick Schmitz, twin brother of Fr. Mike Schmitz. It's cool that both of them chose to become Priests 🙏🎉
😂😂
Really interesting to hear Fr.Mike's conversion story.
I love you guys. Not that I ever seriously thought of becoming a priest, but this made me self-reflect. Thanks.
Why not?
@@broeske11 I was clearly called to be married. And look after grand children sometimes.
From the book " To Save a Thousand of Souls " by fr Brett Brannen
I believe one of the problems in the Church today is that many people are in the wrong vocation. Many people have grown up unaware that they have a vocation, much less that they should be asking God to reveal it to them. And there are many unhappy, unfulfilled, dissatisfied people. As a general rule, people flourish in their correct vocation! Flourishing does not just mean they are happy. It means they are steadily growing in holiness, they are fulfilled, and they are becoming the person God wants them to be. Fr. Brian Bashista, vocation director of the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, underscores that vocation is less about personal choice and more about discovery.
Love Fr Mike's Bible in a year podcast its awesome
🥰🥰🥰
🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏
Serve the Church and contend the faith !
Eternal Father, please send us Holy Priest's, all for the Sacred Heart of Jesus, all for the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, in union with St Joseph 🙏
Thank You Dear Jesus for Fr Mike and his Brother's in the Priesthood 🙏 Viva Cristo Rey 🙏
Tonight I asked my 15 Yr old if he would ever think of priesthood. We live in Northern Ireland. He said no but I planted a seed of thinking like I did with my oldest who will be 23 soon. U plant an option.
Funny that in the Latin Mass, there is never any confusion about transubstantiation, even though the Mass is said in Latin, which people supposedly do not understand. Funny also that the New Mass is so similar in form to that of Thomas Cranmer, in the protestant revolt in England. Hmmm.... Can we connect the dots here?
I’m really struggling with finding my vocation, please pray for me.
ALL vocations are vital for the Mystical Body of Christ to thrive in our world. Priests administer the sacraments, which in turn sanctifies and strengthens us to live a grace-filled life. The universal call to holiness is real...we ALL must strive to be holy, prudent and courageous partakers of the sacraments and the Gospel.
I was a Capuchin at one time. I left when I met my wife. I may not be able to live in a Religious community. I can however, remain a Franciscan and I can be a Permanent Deacon. Both of which I will continue to pursue in my life.
Aloha from Hawaii! Wonderful Podcast!
I once strongly considered the priesthood; I even spent four years in seminary and earned a BA in philosophy. I personally consider my decision to enter seminary to be one of the worst mistakes I've ever made and I wish I could take it back. I lost a lot of time, a lot of money, and ultimately my faith. My story isn't unique either. Think very carefully before going to seminary, there's a strong possibility you'll regret it if you go.
With the shortage of priests, one might considered allowing some Deacons or married men to pursue priesthood. Converted Protestant ministers are allowed to become priests.
Hi there can the host list the books that are on the shelf ? Thanks
From the book "To Save a Thousand of Souls " by fr Brett Brannen
The Vocational Pre-Determination by God When I was a vocation director, I would visit the Catholic schools in my diocese to teach the children about vocations. I explained to them that before God had even created the world, he knew them and he loved them. He already knew your name, he knew every thought you would ever think, he knew how many hairs were on your head, he knew your sins, he knew your good deeds, and he even saw the moment of your death and your entrance into heaven. And God had already decided your vocation before he had even made the world! Or at least, he had already planned to which vocation you would be called. When it finally became time for you to be born, God created your soul to go inside your tiny body, and it was created specifically for that pre-determined vocation. I call this concept the vocational pre-determination by God, or vocational pre-destination. If God is calling you to marriage, then he prepared your soul and gave you the gifts of body and soul to live out the vocation of marriage. If God is calling you to priesthood, then your soul and body were made with that vocation in mind. This will be an important hint for you as you discern. Look at the gifts God has given to you and where those gifts are best used to build up the Kingdom.
The other problem is that some priests are cancelled by bishops. Look at case of Fr. James Altman. This is a problem not as talked about.
Yes! There are many others too😩
Amen
There is a typo in the title.
What’s the real title of the book, Anectotes of the catechism, Fr??
Yes, that sounds like a great book. I would like to buy a copy if you could please share the Title.
Just finished listening. I'm kind of surprised you didn't address what is probably the biggest obstacle for most normal godly men to entering the Roman Catholic priesthood, i.e., the huge problem of homosexuality in said institution. Not one single word!
Maybe you could discuss this matter which concerns you a great deal, with a priest and receive the Light of Truth and feel deep peace about it. God bless your path. 🙏😊
I can't even imagine being celibate for life, and feel like it would bring more temptations to sin. That's the main reason I decided the priesthood wasn't for me, among a few other things.
I know this is for males, but I can't help but question why you would have to "discern" such an important vocational call. When God wants you to do something it's a very clear, unambiguous directive and/or in-the-Spirit knowing or answer that He gives you. So, I would think all one would have to do is just ask Him.
On a side note, I, too, wanted to be a saint! I wanted to be St. Francis of Assisi and have all the animals flock all around me because of all of my obvious and overt holiness, lol. I think that might be every Catholic kid's dream:) Alas, that one was dashed by the development of severe allergies to animals, smh. And, me too, again! I'ld walk to the convent and hang out with the Sisters and the Priests all the time. I liked being around them. I've often thought about becoming a nun...everytime God has been like, "NO". Smh. I have to admit, I can see why...I would be an awful nun and/or sister, I'ld be getting reprimanded all the time...
Anyways, being a servant of God in such an intimate way, that's such a beautiful calling. I'll pray a prayer of clarity for those trying to discern, God bless.
God calls but perhaps we are not so good at hearing. And the only thing that matters is His will. What we want is secondary at most, unless all we want is His Will. God Bless
Don't ever underestimate your beauty in the Body of Christ. Self depreciating is not humility. It's persecution of the Body of Christ. You are more than just a conquer; more than a Joan of Arc in Christ. Burn not at the stake but set a fire in your heart to its dilation.
To ask God what He wants for us is to discern.
@@eduardohoover2127 The orange and red flame from the stake burns and consumes so that the green and white flame of the heart is exposed to enrich and nourish.
The pain of the stake hurts quite a bit and I sometimes do forget it's purpose. Thank you, I very much appreciate and needed to hear your comment. I'll heed it.
@@josephjackson1956 Discernment is looking at someone, seeing into their heart, and knowing their intentions and pain. Discernment is a form of non-judmental spiritual guidance that is given to you in order that you are able to serve that person and help them a little bit along their path.
Asking God is as it sounds, it's asking God.
Good ol father Mick
Pls.pray the rosary and devine mercy chaplet to free all countries from war, diseases, calamities, hunger, corruption, drugs, prostitution, abortion,homosexuality,pornography,euthanasia, divorce, child abuse,terrorism,slavery, corruption, communism and all evils.pls pray for peace and joy in all families and home. . . . .
I studied Theology online at st josephs Maine, st Francis ohio and holy apostles . I will no longer be studing theology anymore. Its better just to do it your own.
Would love to hear Fr. Mike's thoughts on the permanent diaconate! :)
🕊🙏🕊
“Good, better, best. Never let it rest. 'Til your good is better and your better is best.” St Jerome
1920: 20 Y.O. Catholic American Man;
Cop, Fireman, Priest?
1970: 20 Y.O Catholic American Man;
Doctor, Lawyer, Priest?
2020: 20 Y.O. Catholic American Man;
Florist, Hairdresser, Priest?
Priests are servants for Jesus Christ in celibacy, chastity, obedience, spirit of poverty ...etc.
Mick??
I confused. Is this Fr. Mike, or Fr. Mick? I’ve always heard him called Fr. Mike.
Every where else its Mike. May be a misprint. If he were Irish it may be Mick but I think he is Germen Mike (sometimes Italian - Mick if he were Michelangelo).
It's typo error, He is called Fr Mike. You are right.🙇
Fr. Michael Schmitz.
Must be so difficult now to be a RC priest that believes and preaches BIBLE. What tragedy beyond words that the HOLY EUCHARIST can now be given to RC that aid and support abortion. A number of conservative RC priests have been silenced by the Bishops.
Visited a seminary years ago with my parish priest. I was surprised at what I saw. Seemed like most of the seminarians and priests there were a bit effeminate. Visited again a few months later and that second time my first impression was more than confirmed.
I am now 68 and I've studied the matter and I'm convinced that the Lord God Almighty who made heaven and earth had nothing to do with the celibacy requirement. It was totally man made and has wreaked havoc in the Roman Church for the last eight centuries. Said church is, especially now, reaping the disastrous consequences.
In principle, the best young Catholic men would not be able to participate in that system.
Jesus was celibate. The priests are asked to imitate Christ on earth.
I was in the Redemptorist seminary back in mid 1970s....I didn't go on to the RC priesthood. I am Pentecostal in focus....even in 1970s I was evangelical due to Rev Billy Graham. Now the RCC had really gone astray....Holy Eucharist is allowed to be given to RC that aid and abett abortion......even contradicting Canon Law. Divorced and remarried RC cannot receive Holy Eucharist..
Jesus is the high priest. He said some are eunuchs from birth others to the glory of God. He spoke of His own celibacy. Wouldn't it follow His priests follow His example. St Paul said it's better not to marry. He said this because a married priest has two obligations to his family and then the Church. Your judgement of effeminate is highly contentious. These men are not taking female hormones or contemplating sex changes and transgender identification. You connect dots of coincidence and call it fact without acknowledging the Church's battle with Satan as real as the Blessed Sacrament. Don't mistake effeminate with spirituality.
@@michaelciccone2194 I even heard sinners can receive the Eucharist. The RC even believes Christ ate and drank with publican, tax collectors and prostitutes. Have you heard such rubbish. The RC believe their first pope was a cussing fisherman. There seems to be a lot of sacrilege going on among them. I'm glad you're not a sinner and able to cast judgements. Foolish sinners cast rocks in their glass houses.
I do not know why people think never marrying or having children is the worst possible thing. I think marriage and family are God's design and beautiful but some people have no inclination towards marriage nor do they desire children. Maybe celibacy makes them effeminate. I suspect that some LGBTQIA+ Catholic men use the priesthood to escape the judgment of people from wondering why they do not have a girlfriend or wife. People do get suspicious about single people past a certain age. Maybe everyone is supposed to have sex and it is natural to abstain from that earthly pleasure and gift.
you only live once people
So, Dude, I would totally like to become a saint. That's one of my life goals but I suspect there may be hidden vanity in my reasoning. I would like to become a nun or a sister but I think a little too boy crazy. Who knows what God has in store for me?
I don't like Scott Hahn saying marriage is the highest calling. It's not. All callings are difficult because we have to die to ourselves. This idea puts division between single and married people in the church. This elitism is the source of all problems in the church. Anyone who is RC must have the same posture as Christ who didn't see equality with God as something to be grasped but poured himself out as a slave. I have heard many RC's say we have the Eucharist, we are the true church, we are persecuted, etc. The attitude is if people don't get it it's their problem. This is elitism. I tell all my Protestant friends I'm RC because it gives me total union with the Trinity through Jesus Christ. I am becoming Christ therefore part of the Trinity now, here on earth to bring love, mercy and peace to the world one person at a time and not only to my family. Let's bring the Kingdom here to earth on our way to heaven. Trust me when I say there are a lot of people who need the Kingdom here on earth and I believe with my whole heart it's possible. I just wish more people would join me in this mission instead of thinking about getting to heaven only.
We serve God. Not the church. There are no intermediaries between us and our Savior. The Pope and his monarchy are a direct affront to Christ.
The Church, the Body of Christ,was founded by our Lord to love God and our neighbors. The Apostles and their successors are indeed the agents of Christ to preach the Good News and dispense the mysteries of mercy. It’s all in the NT.
We all are to know, love and serve God, and glorify Him by doing his will here on earth as well as in heaven after we have passed. This command by Our Almighty and Heavenly Father includes the Pope. He would place himself in serious mortal danger not doing the same. God bless your path. 🙏😊