As his pastoral year at the University of Portland draws to a close, seminarian Mike Palmer, C.S.C. reflects on how his residence hall has embraced its family identity in an amazing and unusual way.

The Easter Proclamation says "To ransom a slave you gave away your Son." Absurd. Irrational. Excessive. True love.

The joy that I felt for my brothers as they became priests of Jesus Christ in Holy Cross was overwhelming, and I am so happy for them as they begin their priestly ministry.

All of you here have made an impact on my life, and in your own way have helped guide me to this moment.

This trek through Rome is an image of our longer journey as a pilgrim people treading the way to reconciliation with God.

Thomas cries out on behalf of all people who know the pain of separated-ness. And without even knowing it, he identifies the source of healing for that pain.

Now, Matthew, David, Timothy, Stephen, Daniel, and Christopher, you are about to be raised to the Order of the Priesthood.

My brothers, never lose that sense of awe at any point in your lives of having the privilege of celebrating the sacraments and presiding at the Eucharist.

I am not approaching ordination with great nervousness but rather great excitement. I am excited to be ordained a priest and to share in Christ's ministry here on Earth!

As my ordination approaches, my joy is deep and true, and it is my prayer that God may always use me as He sees fit, bringing his love and joy to our world.