Qualities of a Priest
The qualities and characteristics of a perspective candidate for the priesthood:
- A personal relationship with God integrated through prayer and seen as an important and vital part of his life
- Has the ability and willingness to talk about his faith
- Has some involvement in his local parish
- Has a desire to serve others and make a difference in people’s lives
- Motivated by the mission of Jesus and ability to articulate it
- Willing to sacrifice personally for the service of the Gospel and the Church
- One who is approachable
- Possesses a psycho-sexual-socio maturity
- Has the ability to collaborate with others
- Takes initiative and assumes responsibility for his actions
- Recognizes the importance of the Church and the role of the Church as teacher.
- Possesses the skills of self-mastery and discipline
- Has shown the capacity and evidence of living a chaste celibate life
- Has healthy relationships with men, women and children
- Has average intelligence, common sense, good physical & emotional health
- Recognizes the need to both give and accept support from others
- Possesses a keen sense of empathy
- Has leadership skills
- The celebration of the Sacraments are important to him
- Has the ability to nurture another person’s growth
- He is open and respectful of all people
- A person of integrity
- An awareness of God’s omnipotent presence
- Others have mentioned that he would make a good priest
This list does not exhaust all of the qualities needed to be an effective & holy priest…