One of the great insights of priestly ministry in recent years is our need for affirmation. Yes, priests need affirmation — from their brother priests, bishops, parishioners, families, and friends.

However, and I will never forget this — again, in the Seminary, the rector would always say this about affirmation: “Don’t count on it. When it comes, thank God, but believe me, there will be a lot of times when ‘thank you,’ ‘good job, Father,’ ‘boy, is this parish ever blessed to have you,’ just don’t come rolling off your parishioners’ tongues. And if you need to depend upon the affirmation of others, if you are counting on popularity, acclaim, and external satisfaction, look out!”

Which reminds me of the story of a newly ordained priest who was once asked by his pastor (not me) to start a Youth Group. He warned him that others had tried and failed. The young Father worked hard to plan a program for every other Sunday evening where young adults would help him present an evening of catechetical instruction, followed by games and pizza. Well, 58 teenagers showed up for a smashing opening night. The young priest could hardly contain his exuberance and reported his success to the pastor, who was watching TV. His only remark was: “Did you turn out the lights and lock up the gym?”

Priesthood Sunday seeks to reaffirm the priesthood of Jesus Christ and its central place in the life of the Church. As I shared with the parish staff at our first meeting, “I want you to believe me when I say, I like being here, and I like being here with you.” I wouldn’t be honest if I told you I don’t care about affirmation. We like to feel that what we do makes a difference.

And finally, not many years ago, London’s The Tablet carried a reflection on the priesthood by an Irish parish priest who had just arrived in his new assignment. He quickly organized the village with a parish council, liturgy committee, and engaged in a strategic plan to set goals and visions. He kept asking his new people, “What role do I have? What do you expect from me, your parish priest? What most effective thing can I do?” He admitted frustration that, after months, he could not pin them down. Finally, at the conclusion of a parish council meeting, he challenged them. “We will not adjourn until you give me a job description.” One of the village elders looked at him after a long silence. “Father, we just want you to be with us.” Now that’s affirmation!