Mentor aids new priests

BY PAT PASTERNAK
STAFF WRITER

Rev. Anthony Kall, OFM Conv., administrator of Holy Family parish in Albany, is the new facilitator of a clergy program in the Albany Diocese that aims to help men ordained less than five years adjust to priestly life.

He sees his position as one of leadership and facilitation, as the members of the group themselves direct the agenda for much of what they do.

"As new priests," Father Kall said, "we want them to be exposed to the many, varied elements of what it takes to work in a parish or office in a diocese. Being part of such a group gives them opportunities to interact with each other, as well as with seasoned priests who are available as mentors."

Get-togethers

The group meets three or four times a year to listen to speakers, pray, discuss and reflect, Father Kall said.

The speakers' topics include relationships with parishioners, aspects of personal growth and demands of priestly ministry.

"Basically, the group is there for support," he explained, "to help each man make the transition from seminary life to Church ministry, a transition that can, at times, be overwhelming."

Mentoring

Through the mentoring part of the program, the priest continued, "recently ordained priests meet with their mentors on a regular basis. Doing so encourages open, meaningful dialogue.

"The group dynamic fosters camaraderie and friendships as well as ongoing support by the priests themselves and their mentors.

"Ongoing formation is an essential element in the life and ministry of the priest. It is an integral part of developing a balanced priestly ministry."

(04/17/08) [[In-content Ad]]