Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Priesthood Sunday, celebrated this year on Sept. 29, is a special day set aside to honor the priesthood. It is a day to reflect upon and affirm the role of the priesthood in the life of the Church and in individual lives.

There are several ways to show love and support for parish priests:

- Buy your priest a set of thank you cards and give one to each major group within the parish. Collect them and then present him with a basket of cards along with treats.

- Coordinate a parish potluck dinner to celebrate “Father’s Day.”

- Organize a reception following Masses.

- Offer an essay, poster, or poetry contest on topics such as “Why Father _____ is so amazing.”

- Include a biography of your priest in the bulletin.

- Have everyone sign a large card for your priest. If your parish is large, each Mass can have its own card which can be displayed at the donut and coffee reception on that Sunday.

- Gather pictures from when your priest was younger and share them with parishioners through the bulletin, church email newsletter, or on posters.

- Write a thank you note or offer him a small gift.

- Invite him to lunch or dinner.

- Pray for him.

Priesthood Sunday offers an opportunity for congregations to express their gratitude and appreciation for their priests' dedication and service.

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