Then his response astonished me: he said he didn’t think his priest friend needed prayers because that cleric was known as a “prayer warrior.”

I was taken aback by that statement. I gently assured him that we all need prayers—especially priests!

The Priestly Vocation Is in the Crosshairs of the Enemy

I encouraged my parishioner to call and check in with his priest friend. I also encourage everyone in the Diocese of San José to continue praying for all priests, because even for seasoned clerics, our vocation is often in the “crosshairs of the enemy.” The devil delights in tempting us away from fully living our priestly call.

I invite everyone to consider that the temptations we all face are often especially intense for those who minister as God’s priests. Saint Paul reminds us that those chosen from among the people to intercede on their behalf should themselves be supported in prayer.

As a priest, I assured my parishioner—and I assure all who read these words—that I always need more prayers myself.

Prayer Is the Source of Our Ministry

As my parishioner went to add his friend’s name to the book of intentions, I was struck by how vulnerable we priests can be. It is not easy to ask for prayers from our congregations. Some parishioners may be surprised to learn that we, who stand before God each day at the altar, also need prayer.

We bring the light of the world to others, but we ourselves are not angels. Prayer is the fuel we need to keep illuminating the world.

Pray that we remain connected to God—the primary source of our strength. Pray that we stay faithful to our calling as priests and shepherds, serving our parish communities with love and humility.

Priests Are Human Still

All priests suffer like the rest of God’s creatures. When we grow tired, we experience the same weaknesses and imperfections as every other human being.

Scripture assures us that it is “not by power, nor by might, but by my Spirit, says the Lord.” Praying for your priest is one important way the laity can live out their Christian responsibility.

Trust me when I say that all priests need your prayers so that we can serve you well. Whether for the strength to rise early and celebrate Mass, or the grace to bring the sacraments to the sick, we rely on your prayers. We also need prayer to make wise decisions and to remain steadfast in faith.

As shepherds leading the flock of God, we are rightly held to a higher standard. This is not an easy life, but it is one we have chosen wholeheartedly. So I invite, encourage, and humbly beg the faithful: pray for your priests constantly! It is through your prayers that a shepherd can tend his flock well and bring all to Christ.

Prayer and Renewal

A priest also needs tangible support. This is why spiritual renewal as a diocese is so essential. With your prayers and through the implementation of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan, priests can better fulfill their primary duties as good shepherds—caring for the sick, supporting the weak, consoling the sorrowful, forgiving the penitent, and celebrating the Eucharist worthily and joyfully.

Let us also enjoy the gift of fellowship within the community of God’s people, both inside and outside the rectory.

With the final injunction from Saint Paul, remember: faith without works is dead. Trust me when I say that priests need both your prayers and your support in this time of renewal. Through your intercession, service, and the plan’s concrete actions, each shepherd can continue to faithfully tend the flock and bring all to Christ.