Priesthood Sunday is a special day set aside to honor the Catholic priesthood in the United States – a day to reflect upon and affirm the central role of the priesthood in the life of the Church. This year, Priesthood Sunday will be celebrated on September 29.

Ways to celebrate as a parish:

• Feature your pastor’s (and parochial vicar’s) photo on the cover of the bulletin with a word of thanks;
• Place a public banner or sign in front of the church;
• Have a simple celebration after the masses to celebrate “Father’s Day;”
• Have the students at your school do an essay or poster assignment that brings awareness to the gift of the priesthood and what priests do for your parish.

And while celebrating our past and present priests, please pray for the 14 current seminarians in formation for the Diocese of Peoria.

This year we welcome four new seminarians: Angel Garcia, St. Mary’s, Bloomington; Gerard Remmes, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Galesburg; Brennen O’Keeffe, Christ the King, Moline; and Daniel Miller, St. Philomena, Peoria (above, from left, with Bishop Tylka).