The vocation of priesthood is not like other occupations. Many people have jobs to put food on the table and a roof over their heads, but their employment does not define them. The priestly ministry, on the other hand, quantifies the man called to holy orders. It is for this reason that I always thought the current practice of having pastors retire was rather peculiar. One does not quit from priestly work. Even the infirmed clergyman in a hospital bed prays for the Church and may offer private Mass for the salvation of souls. Retired priests often still live in rectories and work in parishes. The priest literally works until he drops. The Church assures us that the mark or character distinguishing a man as a priest is also taken into the life to come. He is a priest, forever.
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