St. John of Capistrano on the Priesthood

Saint John of Capistrano, the 14th century priest Franciscan priest and reformer was a brilliant homilist and staunch defender of the Church. He labored to restore the Order founded by Saint Francis of Assisi to its original charism and mission. His reflection on the pastors of souls below summarizes the sacred role of priests.

"Those who are called to the table of the Lord must glow with the brightness that comes from the good example of a praiseworthy and blameless life. They must completely remove from their lives the filth and uncleanness of vice. Their upright lives must make them like the salt of the earth for themselves and for the rest of mankind. The brightness of their wisdom must make them like the light of the world that brings light to others. They must learn from their eminent teacher, Jesus Christ, what he declared not only to his apostles and disciples, but also to all the priests and clerics who were to succeed them, when he said: You are the salt of the earth. But what if salt goes flat? How can you restore its flavor? Then it is good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."

— St. John of Capistrano

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Prayer for St. John of Capistrano's Intercession

O God, who raised up Saint John of Capistrano to comfort your faithful people in tribulation, place us, we pray, under your safe protection and keep your Church in everlasting peace. Almighty ever-living God, grant that by his holy intercession we may live out your will and serve your majesty in sincerity of heart. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen.