Christ, the Ideal of the Priest

by Columba Marmion

The great spiritual writer, Fr. Columba Marmion, wrote this classic work on the priesthood to show the holiness that priests are called to, and how that holiness can only be attained through close union with, and imitation of, Jesus Christ. While aimed at the clergy, this profound spiritual work will also be of immense inspiration for laity in coming to a deeper understanding of the true nature and calling of the priesthood. Echoing the thought and writing of St. Paul, Marmion stresses that the priestly life must be dominated by Christ and in constant dependence on His merits, His grace and His activity in the soul of the priest. In all his actions, in the sacred acts of worship, the administration of the sacraments, private prayer and devotions, and serving the various needs of his flock, Marmion says the priest must always see himself as the minister of the Savior, as Alter Christus.

Genres: Theology, Spirituality, Catholic

398 pages, Paperback

First published October 30, 2005

About the author

Reverend Father Blessed Dom Columba Marmion, OSB, born Joseph Aloysius Marmion a Roman Catholic Benedictine Irish monk and the third Abbot of Maredsous Abbey in Belgium. Beatified by Pope John Paul II on September 3, 2000, Columba was one of the most popular and influential Catholic authors of the 20th Century. His books are considered spiritual classics.

Reviews

[Fr. Zachary Brasseur]

If you wanna be a happy priest you gotta be close to THE priest.

[Kevin W]

Excellent. Convicting and inspiring read for priests.

[Alex McDougall]

This is the kind of book one returns to throughout his life.

[Fr. Zachary Galante]

This is an absolutely beautiful book on the priesthood. He writes with simplicity and depth to encourage priests and future priests on their path of holiness. For priests as for all people it is found through charity of one another.

[Brother Gregory Rice, SOLT]

Read on pilgrimage. Impacted my perspective on the vocation to priesthood.