I stand before you, so to speak, in awe, wonder, fear, trembling and humility. I thank you for entrusting your souls to me. I thank God for each new day that I can use the gifts given to me for the sake of keeping all his people bound in His Christ’s loving heart. But I include fear and trembling because I ask for forgiveness for those times when I have caused harm rather than shared divine healing and mercy.
On this anniversary of my ordination, I am filled with great gratitude and the Spirit-given determination to bring everyone into the heart of Jesus. However, I must ask pardon as one who has poorly imitated Him who is the essence of goodness and righteousness. I pray that we all might grow in humble reconciliation for the sake of all of us being exalted in Christ’s hands.
Faithful disciples and those who seek to persevere in divinely-inspired fidelity will always be greater teachers to me than I will ever be for them. Your sanctity inspires me, and I hope that I may always assist you in your desire for greater holiness each day.
To those who find it difficult to discover God’s plan for you, know that I am praying for you. I hope that I can help you to grow in faith and in joy. Whether you receive a tremendous revelation or hear instruction through a still, small voice, I pray that you hear Jesus speaking to you. Other priests, many ministers and I will give our lives to help you hear well and act upon what you have heard. I thank God for those who have guided me.
Pray that those whom the Master has called to work for the sake of the eternal good harvest may heed the call and share God’s presence and peace. I thank you for praying such a prayer for me and for all called to work in the field.
Father Shawn O’Neal is pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Brevard. He was ordained a priest on June 3, 2000.
