The Christian priesthood being a sharing in the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ is a precious gift of God to mankind. Jesus continues His salvific work through the ministry of the priests. By preaching the Good News, healing the sick and casting out demons priests carry on the mission of Christ, handed over to them through the Apostles. The never- ending love and mercy of God the Father can be manifested through the life and ministry of the priests, only if they have a living relationship with Jesus Christ. Then they become true ambassadors’ and apostles of Christ. The following prayer for the priests reminds us their vital role in the world. “Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the gift of our priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments. Help our priests to be strong in their vocation. Set their souls on fire with love for your people. Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom. Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel. Allow them to experience joy in their ministry. Help them to become instruments of your divine grace. We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest.” (USCCB)