The Year for Priests
Pope Benedict XVI has declared a "Year for Priests" beginning with the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 19, 2009. The year will conclude in Rome with an international gathering of priests with the Holy Father on June 19, 2010. With the announcement of this “Year for Priests”, the Pope has declared St. John Vianney the Universal Patron of Priests on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the death of the Curé d'Ars" (from the USCCB). The Catholic News Service reports: "[Pope Benedict] said he hoped priests would use the year and its special events to deepen their commitment to their own renewal 'for the sake of a more forceful and incisive witness to the Gospel in today's world.'"
Pictured at right is the official icon commissioned by the USCCB. Log on
to the USCCB’s website at 
www.usccb.org and
go to the “Year for Priests” icon to download a beautiful holy card for the
occasion from the Knights of Columbus.
We are blessed in the Archdiocese of Atlanta with over 250 priests including eight newly-ordained priests in 2009. Please join the whole Church in praying for all of our dedicated priests!
Interested in forming your own parish vocation committee please visit 
the USA Council of Serra International. They have a amazing vocation promoting programs.
Please join us in celebrating Priest Sunday on October 25th, 2009.
Stay tuned for more information on the “Year for Priests.”
Praying For Priests
Spiritual Bouquet Postcards: Sample postcards that can be
printed out and used by individuals or parishes. The postcard may be
sent to a priest as a sign of a spiritual bouquet of prayers offered on
his behalf.
Free Guide for Praying for the Priesthood 
Click on cover for larger view.
You may order up to 5 books with free shipping.
Additional Oppportunities To Make This Year Special For Priests
Dinner and Fellowship Invite at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church on June 25, 2010
Additional Information
The Year For Priests Prayer Calendar
USA Council of Serra International
Video Tributes to Our Priests Papel Homily at End of Year for Priests - [Vatican website]
Page last modified: June 15, 2010