Monsignor Pope Ping for OSV column.
That title really takes me back. My church used to sing a song called Priestly People. Back in the 60’s and 70’s.
St. Cecila Catholic Church back in Detroit.
“Priestly People, Kingly People, holy people.
God’s chosen people, sing praise to The Lord!
This may have been sung just before the Offeratory.
I was an Altar Boy then.
I recommend reading 7 secrets of of Confession by Vinny Flynn.
I never had a priest say anything after my confession except the penalty - two Hail Marys and one Our Father.
Unless your mom and dad knew the priest, they did not address you as a child in school unless you got into trouble. I know, because my dad was in the Navy and we had to move every year so the priests never really got to know my mom. I don’t remember a priest ever speaking to me directly. One of my sisters was addressed quite often. She was a trouble maker.
I was scared of nuns and priests - except one nun who deeply introduced and connected me to Jesus and she expressed humor, love and joy like Jesus. She let me hold her hand. I still see her face. If it were not for her, I am not sure I would be a Christian today.