What is Priesthood Sunday?
Priesthood Sunday is a special day set aside to honor priesthood in the United States. It is a day to reflect upon and affirm the role of the priesthood in the life of the Church as a central one.
When is Priesthood Sunday celebrated?
Priesthood Sunday is celebrated on the last Sunday of September. Note: Parishes may choose to celebrate Priesthood Sunday on another Sunday when it is convenient for them.
Why is Priesthood Sunday important?
Catholics are invited to observe Vatican-backed worldwide events, namely, World Day of Prayer for Vocations and World Day for Consecrated Life. In the United States, we also have National Vocation Awareness Week and National Catholic Sisters Week. Priesthood Sunday, however, specifically honors priests, without whom the Mass could not be offered and Sacraments could not be celebrated.
More than the other events listed above, Priesthood Sunday is a more personal one for parishes and organizations with a chaplain. It is for those who cultivate close working relationships with their priests and therefore could benefit from a special day to express their gratitude. It’s a chance to thank and honor priests in unique ways.
