September 29, 2003
“Keyes” to the Kingdom . . .
Okay, I know it’s a silly title. I should be more serious; I’ve now been requested to interview an actual priest – Fr. Jeffrey Keyes, CPPS at The New Gasparian.
To start, my beliefs are that priests in the U.S. aren’t always given the respect that a man making the decision to be a priest deserves. While in Rome for the first time, I heard a story that will always stick with me. During the Reformation, the men graduating from the English College were certain to die. Most were martyred upon stepping off the boat from Rome. How were these men treated in Rome as the studied to become priests? It wasn’t unheard of for others to bow as they passed, full of respect for men who had the faith and the love to give everything – a great model of Christ.
I still believe that priests make a commitment that calls for more than most could bear. Therefore, I don’t believe they receive the respect generally deserved of someone who has the faith to move mountains – or in our case to go up against society in a very profound and real way. So, I think we should all thank those who are strong enough to become priests in our world and pray for them and their personal missions in life.
Okay enough of my blathering, now onto the interview. But, if you aren’t familiar with The New Gasparian, I recommend reading Pope John Paul II’s letter to the group here and taking a look at the profile of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood here first. The second is a little long, but very interesting. Here’s the interview questions:
1) What originally attracted you to the Spirituality of the Precious Blood and St. Gaspar’s mission?
2) I’ve read quite a bit of information about the Mission and the Missionaries on your site, but not a lot about you personally. How did you get to where you are and how does blogging fit into your life?
3) I have friends studying for the priesthood. What advice would you give someone else studying to be a priest?
4) I believe that the reality of suffering and the profound potential that suffering has in our lives is the one message that Americans (in particular) need to hear the most. Would you agree with that sentiment? If not, what would be your take on it?
5) Who would you like to see as the next Pope?
By the way, Fr. Keyes, I work for one of the owners of the San Francisco Giants, but I’m a Braves fan (I get to work in Atlanta, thank goodness).
I’ll post a link back to Father Keyes answers once they are posted.
Jay
UPDATE: Here are the answers Fr. Keyes posted. Very insightful IMHO, so I recommend you get over there and read them!
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