Being a Priest Today

This work on priestly identity embraces the many contemporary varieties of priestly ministry: male and female, paid and unpaid, parish and work based, catholic, evangelical or charismatic. The authors examine the root, shape and fruit of priestly identity, and should be useful for priests, priests in training and everyone considering the ministry. Part one roots a priest's human and church life in the theological convictions derived from the Christian understanding of God as being for and with others. Part two explores the shape of priestly life in relation to worship, word and prayer, each supported by the three key virtues of love, faith and hope. Part three examines the fruit of priestly life in a contemporary reworking of the ancient monastic vows: living faithfully, living honestly and living simply. The book is applicable to various denominations.