On January 3, 1991, the Legion of Christ celebrated its 50th anniversary; and as part of that celebration, St. John Paul II ordained 50 Legionary priests of Christ in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Twenty-five years later, a group of 10 priests from that generation present in Rome concelebrated the Eucharist to thank God for the gift of the priesthood, for them and for all their other companions who, in various parts of the world, are carrying out their ministry. The celebration took place in the same St. Peter’s Basilica at the Altar of St. John Paul II.

The Mass was presided over by Father Paolo Cerquitella, LC, who during his homily emphasized the need “to respond to God’s immense gifts. The immense gift He has given us in founding the Legion and the Movement, which are works of God, the gift of calling us to this path, of making us protagonists of this work, both priests and laity, the specific graces He has given us. It is not us; it is God who wants to accomplish His work. We must be willing.”

From here, our congratulations to them and to all priests celebrating their ordination anniversaries during these dates.