My desire to become a priest began when I received my first Holy Communion. In that moment, I had a profound understanding that Jesus was truly present in the Eucharist and that it was the priest who makes him present in the Mass.
Serving at Mass as a child drew me even further into the mystery of the sacred liturgy. It is an otherworldly experience, as it should be; it is the most extraordinary thing that ever happens on earth!
St. John Vianney said of the Mass, “Martyrdom is nothing in comparison, for it is but the sacrifice of man to God; but the Mass is the sacrifice of God for man.”
Those words, which I came across in seminary, changed how I saw the liturgy. I have taken them to heart since my ordination more than 15 years ago. As a priest, I stand in a special way with Mary and John at the foot of the cross every time I celebrate Mass. I feel so unworthy, but blessed, that God called me to the priesthood.
Father Sean Danda
Archdiocese of Indianapolis
St. Malachy Council 12540
Brownsburg, Indiana








