As a Holy Cross priest, my greatest privilege and deepest joy is offering the sacraments for the salvation of souls. Currently assigned to the rapidly growing “mega-parish” of St. John Vianney Church in Goodyear, Arizona, I find myself immersed in opportunities to serve. It’s hard to estimate how many parishioners are actively involved, but within our boundaries live at least 100,000 souls. Five hundred students attend our school. We are also responsible for two hospitals and nine nursing homes.
In a typical week, we celebrate one wedding and maybe two funerals. Nearly every day, we receive calls for the Anointing of the Sick or emergency Last Rites. Confessions are heard for over five hours each week – and the lines rarely let up.
A few months ago, after a long and exhausting day, I realized I had celebrated all seven sacraments in a single day! Granted, I didn’t ordain anyone — but as a priest, I bear the indelible character of Holy Orders. So I’m counting the priesthood as number one.
That Saturday began with the Holy Eucharist, followed by a couple hours in the confessional. I then baptized a baby, and later in the afternoon, witnessed a couple’s marriage vows — I also had the privilege of confirming the groom during the wedding. At night, I was called to go and anoint a woman near death.
It wasn’t the first time in the parish I’ve experienced a day so “full of grace,” but I was struck anew with profound gratitude and humility. To be used by the Lord in such a concentrated outpouring of grace — it left me in true awe of my vocation.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, in his book Priests for the Third Millennium, reflects on the central importance of parish ministry. In his characteristically folksy style, he writes: “When the judge asked the infamous thief Willie Sutton why he robbed banks, he replied, ‘Cause that’s where the money is!’ When they ask us, ‘Why do you want to be a parish priest?’ we can respond: ‘Cause that’s where the souls are!’”
I thank God every day for the gift of this ministry and for the privilege of standing at the intersection of heaven and earth in the lives of so many we serve.
I’m especially grateful to live out this intense ministry not in isolation, but within a Holy Cross parish — where we do not serve alone. The support, prayer, and shared mission of my brother in community sustains me daily. Whether we’re dividing up hospital visits, covering confessions, or simply encouraging one another after a long day, I’m reminded that our charism as religious priests and brothers strengthens our witness and multiplies our capacity to serve.
Fr. Brian Kennedy, C.S.C.
Published on May 27, 2025
