June 16, 2009
My Dear Brother Priests,
On March 16, 2009, Pope Benedict XVI announced the establishment of a special “Year for Priests” that will begin on June 19, 2009 and last until June 19, 2010. It is is the 150th anniversary of the death of the Holy Curé d’Ars, Jean-Marie Vianney, a true example of a pastor at the service of Christ’s flock.
As the year evolves, a number of initiatives involving all priests of the Archdiocese of Toronto will be introduced. To help coordinate these efforts, I have asked Fr. Marian Gil, O.M.I. and Fr. John Bertão to assist in reviewing the various suggestions that were presented at the Council of Priests and examine how they can best be implemented. Regular communication will flow regarding these projects as plans are finalized.
In the words of Claudio Cardinal Humes, Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy,
"May this year be an occasion for a period of intense appreciation of the priestly identity, of the theology of the Catholic priesthood, and of the extraordinary meaning of the vocation and mission of priests within the Church and society.”
For the remainder of the month of June, I would ask that you include the following intercession in the Prayers of the Faithful:
"Let us pray for all priests, that through the intercession of St. Jean-Marie Vianney, they may grow in their priestly zeal and bring their brothers and sisters to the love of Christ. We pray to the Lord."
I look forward to celebrating the “Year for Priests” together as we continue our common ministry of serving the Lord and our family of faith.
Yours sincerely in the Lord,
Thomas C. Collins
Archbishop of Toronto