The Priest: A Man of Prayer
The lecture affirms that the priest is not merely a liturgical servant or preacher only, but primarily a man of prayer and an intercessor between God and people, required to pray without ceasing for himself and for the people.
The priest’s prayer duties
-
The priest should remember the names of people and their needs and place them on the altar if he does not have private prayers for them.
-
He should pray seriously and with reverence during liturgical and secret prayers, and his prayers should be deep not routine.
-
He should struggle with God for matters that seem intractable and mention incurable illnesses, travelers and the needy within his prayers.
Practical aspects of the priest’s prayer
-
Prayer for confessions, the midnight office, visitation and visits to the sick — all require special prayer directed to the person’s situation.
-
Family prayer is obligatory — the priest must pray with his family and for them so they feel he prays for them.
-
The priest must not excuse himself by busyness from prayer; prayer must be at the forefront of his ministry.
Spirituality of the rite and the melody
-
The priest should consider the spirituality of the rite: what he says, how he says it, and the speed of performance so that people understand and live the spiritual experience.
-
The melody and hymns have a role in reaching hearts; a chanted prayer with spirituality stirs souls and conveys spiritual depth.
Functional conclusion
The wise minister balances between liturgical prayers and personal and individual prayer for people, and makes prayer a primary tool of intercession and spiritual care with love and humility.
For better translation support, please contact the center.
