Are you thinking of becoming a priest? Have you bought into the notion that priests of the Catholic faith are unhappy and not content? Well, this book is for you. The book is a short, quick read and not for those looking for an academic examination of the priesthood. Instead, this is for the everyday reader and in many ways it touches ones heart. Thirty faithful men have written their reasons for becoming and remaining a priest. They are from dioceses all around the country. Even with their diverse backgrounds they all seem to have a common thread throughout their stories--God called them. Many of their stories describe that they are called and sustained by God Himself. After years and years of ministry they each have come to the conclusion that God called them the priesthood! This book is greatly encouraging for those discerning the priesthood and should be especially recommended to high school youth. This would also be a great gift for priests themselves as I think it would inspire thoughtful reflection on their own calling and entrance into the priesthood. It could be a springboard for greater renewal and contemplation of what God has done in their life. Additionally, I pray that this book would help change the preception of priests by many laity and secular. Many priests are thankful for their calling and would make the decision again. They are happy!

30 American men wrote short synopses on the reasons that they are Priests and why they have remained in the Priesthood. Their 'callings' varied. Some knew they wanted to be a Priest from a very early age while others didn't know until their 30's and 40's. They come from various backgrounds bringing with them their individual talents. The challenges they face are as unique as each individual Priest.

They all experienced the second Vatican Council at some point in their career. The book aptly demonstrates the various ways in which the Council has affected their Priestly ministry.

The vignettes presented in the book show that the missions and commitments of these 30 Priests are as diverse as the people they love and serve. They belong to a variety of Religious and Priestly Orders. Their Priestly activites involve parishes, universities, foreign countries, national and local church councils, publishing houses, seminaries, catholic newspapers, armed services, labor, and elementary and high schools. They are called in their witness to Christ as writers, teachers, authors, missionaries, professors, leaders, parish and diocesan ministries, pastors, administrators, editors, canon lawyers, columnists, labor mediators, chaplains, campus ministers, spiritual directors, lecturers and Bishops.

What struck me the most was the common agreement among them of their love for Jesus, the Eucharist, the Pope and the People of God. It is especially for the people, the laity-you and me, that they remain.

There are some surprising answers in this book. Don't miss the opportunity to read it! It presents an excellent overall view of the Priestly life and challenges. As a lay person, this book really opened my eyes to the dedication of our Priests. It may even be a book you will want to read more than once.