Editor’s Note: This was a homily for a newly ordained group entering the priesthood. We have included it, as the words pertain to all of us, and as a reminder to continue to pray for all of our priests.

I have been a priest for 18 years and if there is one thing that has helped me a lot in my service, it is the ministry of deliverance and exorcism. Why? It makes us realize that in the world that we live in, there is the seen and the unseen. In the unseen, there is good versus evil. Related to that, St. Paul reminds us that the greatest battle – wherein principles are challenged – is currently happening.

Jesus dealt with evil known as fallen angels. His victory reminds us that good will always prevail, but the devil will always put up a good fight. Hence, three things we should always remember:

1. Satan hates the Church, he hates the ordained. When Christ founded the Church his very first words, “not even the gates of the netherworld will prevail against it”. Also, it goes without saying that Satan hates the “Alter Christus.” When a priest goes down, how many other people are hurt and scandalized? 
2. The words of the devil when he tempted Jesus in the desert.  “All these I shall give to you if you will prostrate yourself and worship me.” In the ministry, you will have access to almost everything you like. If you are greedy, you will even use the money of the Church. If you fall into a relationship, you will even use the money of the Church. If you feel like you are rich and a “somebody”, you will use the money of the Church. Before we know it, money will be the master and not God. 
3. Believe that evil is real. Without having to dwell in the occult but by participating in the ministry of deliverance, one realizes how the devil imprisons God’s most valuable creation – we who are created in the image and likeness of God. 

As you enter the priesthood, remember we cannot be neutral fence-sitters. Only time will tell whose side you are on. In the meantime, remember the words of Mother Mary in Fatima, “At the end, my immaculate heart will triumph.”