A Priest of the Gospel

1. Would you describe a particular time when it was a great joy to be a Jesuit.

The most joyful day I’ve experienced was when I was ordained as a priest. It was a sublime moment where I felt the love and community of God in family, relatives, and friends in the Society. I was and am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude as I didn’t do anything to merit being ordained, but through the mercy of Christ, I am able to administer the Sacraments to and for God’s people.

2. What would you say are the greatest talents, skills, or gifts you enjoy in your life?

The greatest gift I have is the gift of the Eucharist. I love learning about the richness depth of Christ’s love in the Gospel and am continually struck by my daily need for the Eucharist. I also continue to share in St. Ignatius’ love for and appreciation of the Church and for our Holy Father.

3. What are the key needs of the world today and how do you experience that in ministry?

The world needs Christ’s love and reconciliation more than anything. Jesuits are given the profound opportunity to be agents of various manifestations of reconcilation in all of the Society’s ministries. Whether we are ministering to the sick, lonely, or the broken, we minister to Christ. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, I am humbled by the relief that the faithful express after experiencing the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This is very consoling and humbling. In this, I’m reminded of my own need to receive this great sacramental gift.

Update: Fr. Sean Raftis is now a priest of the Diocese of Helena, MT. You can find him at the Cathedral of St. Helena and St. Theodore Mission.