Words of Pope John Paul II on Priesthood Vocation

Every vocation to the priestly ministry is an extraordinary gift of God's love. . .

- Chrism Mass Homily
(April 17, 2003)

---

The first disciples, and in a special way the Twelve, were invited to become friends of Jesus.  But the condition for being admitted to this privileged relationship was their radical commitment.  Today, too, the only possible response to Christ's call remains that of the apostles.  "They left everything and followed Him" (Lk 5:11).

- To seminarians and novices in Budapest
(August 19, 1991)

---

In a special way I commend to you young men the closing words of this evening's Gospel:  "You did not choose me, but I chose you" (Jn 15:16).  Yes, the gift of a vocation to the priesthood is not something you seek for yourselves.  It has nothing to do with status or privilege as the world understands these things.  Your great privilege will be to lay down your lives with Christ the eternal priest if you are truly called to this vocation.  May God help each of you to discern His will so that you too may "Go out to bear fruit, fruit that will last."

- To priests, religious, and seminarians in Malawi
(May 4, 1989)

---

To preside at the Lord's Supper is, therefore, an urgent invitation to offer oneself in gift, so that the attitude of the Suffering, Servant and Lord may continue and grow in the Church.  Dear young men, nurture your attraction to those values and radical choices which will transform your lives into service of others, in the footsteps of Jesus, the Lamb of God.  ...Do not be afraid to accept this call.  You will surely encounter difficulties and sacrifices, but you will be happy to serve.  You will be witnesses of that joy that the world cannot give.  You will be living flames of an infinite and eternal love.  You will know the spiritual riches of the priesthood, divine gift and mystery.

- World Youth Day
(2003)