In the midst of today’s demanding pastoral landscape, priests carry the weight of leadership, administration, and pastoral care—often at the expense of their own interior life. Yet, it is precisely this communion with Christ that fuels every aspect of priestly ministry.

This half-day seminar, Living a Good Spiritual Life as a Busy Priest, was designed exclusively for priests, offering space for renewal, fraternity, and honest reflection. Through thought-provoking talks, prayer, and shared conversation, participants were reminded that their first vocation is to remain rooted in Christ.

Session 1: Soul of the Apostolate with Fr. Marcel

Fr. Marcel opened the seminar with heartfelt reflections on the essential role of prayer and friendship. Sharing from his own ministry, he emphasized that priests cannot “pour from an empty vessel.” Staying grounded in Christ through daily prayer and supporting one another in fraternity are not optional—they are vital to a life of service.

Session 2: Ignatian Practices for Today's Busy Priest with Fr. Bart

In this practical and encouraging talk, Fr. Bart introduced the wisdom of Ignatian spirituality as a framework for balance. Drawing from St. Ignatius himself, he reminded priests that rest, retreat, and even saying “no” at times are not indulgences but necessities for sustaining mission. His invitation: to embrace discernment and self-care in order to say a wholehearted “yes” to Christ and the people of God.

Session 3: Timely Habits for a Priest Without Time with Fr. Ezra

Through Scripture and lived experience, Fr. Ezra offered a profound reflection on the gift of time. He reminded priests that every moment is entrusted to them by God and encouraged them to prioritize prayer as the anchor of the day. His challenge to “order the day around prayer” spoke directly to the busyness of parish life, offering hope and clarity for those pulled in many directions.

At Saint John’s Seminary, our mission extends beyond preparing future priests for ordination—we are equally dedicated to walking with our alumni and brother priests throughout their years of ministry. By sharing resources like these recordings, we seek to strengthen and sustain the spiritual lives of those who serve the Church so faithfully. It is our hope that these sessions offer encouragement and insight, and we remain committed to providing ongoing opportunities for formation and professional development that nourish both the heart and the ministry of every priest.