Hebrews 5:1: For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed [ordained] to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.
Hebrews 5:4: And one does not take honor upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was.
John 15:16: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed [ordained] you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide; so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.”
John 20:21: Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.”
The Lord chooses us, we do not choose him. Nowhere is this more evident than in priesthood. It is not something anyone deserves. It cannot be made an item on anyone’s social justice agenda for inclusion. The people in the pews have no innate authority to commission clergy apart from Christ. Rather, a divine calling is ratified and brought to completion through the Apostles and their legitimate successors.
For more such reading, contact me about getting my book, DEFENDING THE CATHOLIC FAITH.
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