Meet our priests: Father Ixon Chateau

What assignments have you had since ordination?

St Clement Parish, Somerville.

What have been some of the greatest joys for you as a priest?

My greatest joys are just being a priest and being present for God’s holy people.

Who influenced your vocation most to consider the priesthood? Lay faithful, as well as many priests.

What events or practices in your life helped you to discover and discern your call to the priesthood?

I was an altar server. Through the years, I have been witness to the good works of so many priests and the love they have for God’s people.

What is one of your favorite scripture passages and why?

Jeremiah 1: 5-10. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you. “Ah, Lord GOD!” I said, “I know not how to speak; I am too young.” But the LORD answered me, Say not, “I am too young.” To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak. Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you, says the LORD. When the LORD extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying, See, I place my words in your mouth! This day I set you over nations and over kingdoms, To root up and to tear down, to destroy and to demolish, to build and to plant.

What are some of your hobbies?

Biking, reading and cooking.

What advice would you give to a young man who is considering the priesthood?

One cannot tell if the water is hot or cold until one puts his feet into it.

What are some of your favorite books/ spiritual reading/ magazines?

“The True Priest,” by Cardinal Michele Pellegrino. “Behold Your Mother,” by Stephen Rossetti.

Through the cardinal, God is calling each of us personally to help rebuild His Church. How must the priest respond to this mandate today?

We help build up the Church and the Priesthood by encouraging and taking some young men to visit the seminary, Vocation Office discernment events & Masses at the Cathedral.

When Cardinal Seán came to Boston, he wrote a pastoral letter entitled: “Vocations: Everybody’s Business.” What are some ways that we can help all individuals and families understand their role in promoting and supporting vocations?

As baptized men & women, it’s our job to promote vocations. If we do not do it, no one will.