Generations of Priests

This book illustrates the richness of the Catholic priesthood by reference to the lives of ten men who, at different stages in history, committed themselves fully to follow Christ as labourers in his vineyard. These men, although following very different paths, have several elements in common arising from the holiness of their lives. Thus we find in all a deep personal love for Christ, a willingness to sacrifice themselves generously for the salvation of souls, a great loyalty to the Magisterium, and a rich human sensibility.

'This book could he read as a handbook for living the priesthood in a difficult time. Through the often heroic lives of these priests, we are introduced to rich insights from Church and secular history and imaginative pastoral practices...Because the ten priests are saints, or at least on the way to sainthood, their stories will also be invaluable to catechists and an inspiration to all Christians living in our age.-Cardinal George Pell, from the Foreword to the book

Thomas McGovern is a priest of the Opus Dei prelature who works in Dublin. He holds a doctorate in theology from the University of Navarre, Spain, and has written for several journals, including Homiletic and Pastoral Review, Annales Theologici and Josephinum Journal of Theology. In his pastoral work he preaches regularly to priests, and for many years has carried out a work of spiritual guidance with them.