Gratitude at 35 Years of Priesthood
by Father Gabriel, OP
This June 9, I will celebrate 35 years since the Lord ordained me to serve His Church as a priest. By God’s beautiful design, this anniversary falls the day after the Solemnity of Pentecost, and on the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. I can think of no more fitting liturgical “companions” for this moment than the Holy Spirit, who strengthens us for mission, and Our Blessed Mother, who tenderly accompanies every priest as she did the Apostles.
Looking back over these 35 years, my heart is full. I am simply overwhelmed with gratitude. God has been faithful—steadily, tenderly, fiercely. His mercy has never failed me. He called me, a poor sinner, and allowed me to hold His mysteries in my hands. There is no greater privilege on earth than to celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, to proclaim the living Word, and to absolve sins in the confessional.
Since 2011, I have had the great joy of serving here at St. Mary’s Parish in Vancouver as full-time assistant pastor. What a blessing these years have been! I thank God for the priests He has placed alongside me, especially our beloved pastor, Fr. Joseph, OP. His wisdom, kindness, and pastoral zeal are a constant source of inspiration. I am also very grateful to my other brother Dominican priests, Frs. Guy, Pierre, Gilles, Mark, David and Jose.
But most of all, I want to thank you, the parishioners of St. Mary’s. You have welcomed me, prayed for me, shared your lives and struggles with me, and let me be your priest. I have heard your confessions, baptized your children, blessed your homes, and walked with you through joys and sorrows. You have strengthened my vocation in more ways than I can express.
I don’t feel 35 years “older” in the priesthood—only more in love with my Lord Jesus and more convinced of His love for every soul. The fire of Pentecost still burns, and the maternal heart of Mary still intercedes. So, I move forward with joy, trusting in God who began this work in me and who, I believe, will bring it to completion.
Please pray for me, as I continue to pray for you. May the Holy Spirit renew our hearts, and may Mary, Mother of the Church, guide us ever closer to her Son.
With gratitude and love in Christ,
Fr. Gabriel, OP