Walking with Claret. 3rd moment: Becoming a Priest

Third Moment: Becoming a Priest
In 1829, Anthony began to attend the seminary of Vic, Barcelona. The atmosphere of the seminary was optimal. He even had a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary which helped him overcome a test of chastity. After being ordained a deacon, he entered into a deep contact with the Bible which conferred onto him an apostolic and missionary spirit. Anthony was ordained a priest on June 13, 1835, at the age of 27. His first assignment was to his hometown of Sallent. The political situation in Spain fueled animosity towards the Church and suppressed all religious institutes. Despite the hostile ambience, Anthony dedicated himself to his priestly tasks and his apostolic zeal inspired him to see beyond the parish boundaries. In 1939, he decided to go to Rome to enroll in the Propagation of the Faith to preach in distant lands.
Even after achieving our desires and goals, we can discover that there is still much more to accomplish. In a way, we are never done learning or exploring possibilities that further our original dreams. Even our struggles can be a source of creativity, helping us to think anew of what could be, what should be, and what can be.
Let us pray,
God of all inspiration, you imbued St. Anthony Mary Claret with a missionary spirit, may we be moved to go beyond our comforts and dare to dream to bring about a new reality.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
St. Anthony Mary Claret, Pray for us.