What Do Priests Do?
Priests do many visible things—celebrating Mass, preaching, teaching, visiting the sick—but their work is ultimately about one mission: bringing people to Jesus Christ and helping them live the life of faith.
A priest serves as a spiritual father to a community, offering guidance, grace through the sacraments, and steady presence in every season of life.
Celebrate the Mass and the Sacraments
At the heart of priestly life is the Eucharist. Priests also offer confession, anoint the sick, witness marriages, and celebrate baptisms—bringing Christ’s grace into real life.
Preach and Teach the Faith
Priests proclaim the Gospel and help people understand it—through homilies, RCIA/OCIA, Bible studies, youth ministry, and everyday conversations.
Shepherd a Parish Community
A priest leads a parish with care and responsibility—helping people grow spiritually, building unity, and guiding the mission of the Church locally.
Offer Spiritual Guidance and Pastoral Care
Priests listen, counsel, and accompany people through questions, decisions, suffering, and growth—helping them discern God’s presence and direction.
Be Present in Life’s Biggest Moments
Priests walk with people through joy and grief: weddings, funerals, hospital visits, crises, and celebrations—bringing prayer and hope where it’s needed most.
Serve Beyond the Parish
Some priests serve in schools, hospitals, prisons, campus ministry, retreat work, the military, or diocesan leadership—meeting people where the Church is needed.
Curious What Priestly Life Is Really Like?
The best way to understand what priests do is to meet one and ask honest questions. If you’re discerning—or simply curious—reach out. We’ll help you learn what priestly life looks like up close.
