Again, to-day, we turn to the Litany of Loreto for a theme for our reflection; and we find it in the invocation "Queen of Apostles, pray for us". In the lead up to the year 2000, Pope John Paul has requested that we prepare ernestly for the great anniversary marking two millenia since God's dramatic encounter with His people in the person of Jesus Christ. As part of that preparation, this year, 1997, has been declared the year of Jesus; and any comprehensive study of Jesus must touch on the subject of Priesthood. To-day, our reflection will centre on this theme.
Point 1: When we speak of Priesthood we must, at first, touch on the General Priesthood which all people in terms of their baptism share. Through Baptism, all become involved in the apostolic work of making God known to all with whom we come in contact. This general priesthood is to be exercised by each one by example, firstly, and, where opportune, by word. Few will go to heaven alone. Equally, few will not be saved alone. Consciously or unconsciously whilst effecting our own salvation, we shall be instrumental in helping other to salvation. Example is contagious. Others are influenced by good example. Every act of virtue, every duty fulfilled has its effect on those with whom we live. We may not be aware of this; the possibility that we are influencing others may not enter our minds; nor should that be the primary reason for our behaviour. Our primary reason should be to please God. Nevertheless, without realising it, our good example is an encouragement to others to follow. Bad example has an equal opposite effect. Independent of our intention, people are hurt spiritually by our bad conduct.
Point 2: So much for the general priesthood that all Christians share. We need to look at the official Priesthood which differs not only in degree but also in kind from the universal priesthood of the faithful. The task of this Priesthood is to be found in the priest's role to mediate between God and people in matters that relate to God. The author of the Letter to the Hebrews gives this definition of the priest as being one taken from among people to be put in charge of things pertaining to God on their behalf, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. This work of mediation includes preaching the word of God, instructing the Christian community and administering the Sacraments, but, above all, when offering the eucharistic sacrifice in the name of the whole Church. And yet, whilst conscious of the exalted role given to him, the priest must never cease to be servant. Just as Christ came to serve and not to be served, so the priest should see himself for what he is - servant of the people of God.
In recent years, a good many priests have experienced "identity crisis"- the challenge of a more highly educated public has troubled some; others have too closely indentified with administrative chores; the fact that a large part of the charitable work originally promoted by the priest is now carried out by other agencies appears to have left some of our colleagues out on a limb. Then, too, "burn out" is a phrase that is often bandied around. For a variety of reasons, the Priesthood is under challenge. That is why the Archbishop has encouraged all to pray that this challenge may be met.
Conclusion: When Christ's public ministry closed and his priesthood was taken up by the Apostles, it is reasonable to suppose that Mary would have been closely involved in their mission to make known her Son. No doubt they would have gone to her for advice, for comfort and encouragement. So should we! It was in recognition of her concern that the Church conferred on Mary the title "Queen of the Apostles". Any sovereign has concern for all subjects. It is no different with Mary; her protection reaches all who are apostles in the general sense of having being baptised, or in the official priesthood. United, then, let us call on her for protection - Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that any one who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, we fly unto you, O Virgin of Virgins and mother; to you do we come; before you we stand, sinful and sorrowful; O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer us. Amen