A Retreat for Everyone – Jesus, the Eternal Priest (2/15)

In this chapter, Bishop Fulton Sheen delves into the identity of Christ as both priest and victim, exploring the profound implications this has for priests, religious, and laity alike. Using the pivotal scene from Matthew 16, where Peter proclaims Jesus as the Christ, Sheen emphasizes that this recognition was not through human reasoning but by divine revelation. He explains that Christ embodies both humanity, to represent us, and divinity, to atone for our sins. Importantly, Sheen expands on this dual identity by revealing how Christ sees Himself—not just as Messiah, but as a sacrificial victim who offers Himself for the redemption of humanity.

Sheen critiques the modern tendency to separate priesthood from victimhood, arguing that this disconnect has led to a loss of spiritual vitality in the Church. He underscores that Christ’s priesthood is inseparable from His role as victim, as He not only offers a sacrifice but becomes the sacrifice itself. This is a radical departure from other priestly traditions, where offerings were distinct from the priests themselves. Sheen calls on priests, religious, and laity to embrace this dual identity in their lives, offering themselves as living sacrifices in union with Christ’s mission. He links this to the Incarnation and Passion, showing how Christ’s priesthood unites us with God, while His victimhood unites us with humanity’s suffering.

Concluding with a meditation on the crucifix, Sheen contrasts “Christ without the cross”—a diluted, worldly Christianity—with “the cross without Christ,” represented by totalitarian regimes that emphasize sacrifice devoid of divine love. He warns that the future of Christianity hinges on recovering the fullness of Christ as both priest and victim. This chapter invites reflection on the essence of true discipleship: embracing holiness while serving the brokenness of the world, united in Christ’s mission of redemption.