It takes a parish to raise up a priest. Overwhelmingly, vocations to the sacred priesthood are fostered and discerned within the environment of a healthy, happy, and holy parish. Watch this film to glimpse that beautiful reality.
It features the first Mass offered by the newly ordained Father Joshua Bauer back in his home parish of Saint Elizabeth in Tecumseh, Michigan. That's where Father Bauer grew up under the care of Father Dan Wheeler, who has served as pastor of Saint Elizabeth for four decades.
"Priesthood is a gift first to the Church, but also a gift that has grown from the faith and love of this parish community," said Father Wheeler, "Today we give thanks not only to Father Josh, but for what God has done among us. How blessed we are that we have from our parish, from these pews, a son who is now to serve the larger Church."
This film also features one of the most beautiful traditions surrounding the ordination to the sacred priesthood: the presentation of the maniturgium and the stole to the new priest’s mother and father. What’s the maniturgium? Watch and find out.