Newly Ordained Priests Bring Hope to Catholic Church in Arlington
In Arlington, Virginia, a significant moment took place as twelve young men prepared for their ordination as Catholic priests. They rehearsed under the grand arches of the cathedral, familiarizing themselves with their roles for the coming Mass.
On a warm Friday afternoon, excitement filled the air as these men awaited their ceremony, marking the culmination of six years of dedication at the seminary. This group is unique; it’s the largest class to be ordained in nearly three decades, reflecting a promising trend in the diocese.
The local bishop refers to them affectionately as “the 12,” drawing a parallel to the apostles and instilling hope for a rejuvenated church facing numerous challenges in recent years.
Among this group are individuals from various backgrounds, including engineers and a technology entrepreneur. Interestingly, some have ties to countries known for their strong Catholic roots, like Mexico and Peru. As they embark on their priestly journey, the church faces a pressing shortage of clergy, with the number of priests in the U.S. having declined significantly over the past few decades.
These future priests have already taken on the role of transitional deacons, performing baptisms and delivering homilies while committing to a life of obedience and celibacy. Their training has prepared them for the important responsibilities they will soon embrace.
During rehearsal, amidst moments of lightheartedness and anticipation, they also practiced the profound act of prostration—a gesture of humility that symbolizes their complete dedication to their service. Reverend Mike Sampson, one of the ordinands, emphasized this commitment by stating, “We’re laying our lives down.”
Not only are they stepping into their roles with confidence, but they also indicate a shift in the Catholic Church’s direction toward conservative teachings on essential social issues. Many are drawn to the church’s sacred values and find themselves wanting to offer clarity and beauty in their service, in contrast to the increasingly secular world around them.
While neighboring dioceses are closing churches due to financial constraints, Arlington’s diocese is thriving, opening new parishes to accommodate its growing community of believers. The recent ordination class is the second largest in the diocese’s history, highlighting effective recruitment strategies and the vibrant communities that attract young professionals.
Personal stories from the ordinands reveal the passion fueling their decision to pursue the priesthood. Many recognized that despite successful careers, something deeper called them to serve God and their communities. These men have each sacrificed the idea of a traditional family life, as they now focus on nurturing spiritual families instead.
Though the path of a priest can be challenging, these newcomers—full of hope and determination—illustrate a brighter future for the Catholic Church. The enthusiastic welcome they received during their ordination Mass underscored this optimism as they stepped forward into a new chapter, ready to carry on the sacred traditions of their faith and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
