Today, we congratulate Father Jeffrey Starkovich on the 14th anniversary of his priestly ministry. He was ordained on June 11, 2011. Father Starkovich is pastor of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Ragley. He also serves as the Diocesan Spokesperson and Director of Continuing Formation for Priests.
“I was inspired by several priests to pursue a vocation to the priesthood,” said Father Starkovich. “Among them were Monsignor Irving DeBlanc, Father Wayne LeBleu, Father Whitney Miller, Father Tony Fontenot, Father Wayne Duet, and others who served as great role models.”
“After 14 years of priestly life, no two days have been the same. The Lord is always full of surprises, especially in the way that He works in the lives of his people,” he said. “I find the most joy in finding the ways that God’s grace works to bring people to conversion and a deeper life of faith. It’s a marvelous adventure to be a part of God’s plan.”
PRAYER FOR PRIESTS
Gracious and loving God, we thank your for the gift of our priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments.Help our priests to be strong in their vocation. Set their souls on fire with love for your people. Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.
Inspire our priests with the vision of your Kingdom. Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel. Allow them to experience joy in their ministry. Help them to become instruments of your divine grace.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest. Amen.
