Dublin Retreat 11/16 - Casting the Right Shadows: Embodying Christ in Modern Priesthood

Archbishop Fulton Sheen, in his 1977 Dublin retreat, addresses the evolving respect and perception of priests in contemporary society. He emphasizes the importance of genuinely reflecting Christ's image, noting the decreasing automatic reverence for clergy and the increasing need for authenticity. Sheen discusses the challenges faced by the church and the necessity for priests to internalize spiritual virtues rather than rely on external displays. He underscores the power of personal holiness and the impact of Christ's presence within priests, using examples like Mother Teresa and Pope John XXIII to illustrate how true sanctity can profoundly influence others. The message is clear: in a world less inclined to respect the institutional church, the individual priest’s ability to authentically embody Christ is crucial for casting the right shadows - those of healing, goodness, and faith.