Local
Meet our priests: Father Brian Smith
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Posted: 11/28/2008
Father Brian Smith
Parish/assignment:
Team Ministry, St. Edith Stein Parish, Brockton, Ma.
Place of birth:
Weymouth, Mass.
How many brothers and sisters do you have?
I have three brothers — one older, one younger and my twin brother.
High school:
Weymouth North High School
College/university/ seminary:
Undergraduate — Bridgewater State College?Seminary (Theology) — St. John’s Seminary
Date of dination:
Class of 2003?
What assignments have you had since ordination?
My first assignment was as parochial vicar at St. Edith Stein Parish. I was then assigned to St. Edith Stein Parish for Team Ministry.
What have been some of the greatest joys for you as a priest?
It’s a privilege that almost defies description to meet families or individuals in Sacramental moments and faith formation. That God lets us be in anyway part of His healing, His sacrifice on the Cross and spreading the Good News is something we can easily take for granted.
Who influenced your vocation most to consider the priesthood?
My parents, some of the priests I met growing up, two amazing women religious from my youth, my CYO basketball coach...I’ve been blessed.
What events or practices in your life helped you to discover and discern your call to the priesthood?
The day as a teenager when my parents sent me down to volunteer in a Special Needs CCD class in my parish on a beautiful Saturday morning. That day put me on my path.
What is one of your favorite scripture passages and why?
“I love you Lord...you are my strength.” I say it quietly to myself every time I celebrate the Eucharist. It reminds me that it’s about Him...it’s His work, not mine, and if I try and stay out of the way, He’ll do great things.
What are some of your hobbies?
Playing guitar, reading, movies
What are some of your favorite books/ spiritual reading/ magazines?
I’ve found “Magnificat” magazine a great source of prayer and even formation. Also “An Introduction to the Devout Life” by St. Francis DeSales, and anything by C.S. Lewis.
Through the Cardinal, God is calling each of us personally to help rebuild His Church. How must the priest respond to this mandate today?
It’s more important than ever, I think, to be ready and able to meet God’s people where they are in their faith. Rebuilding the Church is about rebuilding relationships with and among His people. Be ready to listen and just walk with people from wherever they are or have been.
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?
The best vocation advertisement is a happy priest. When families and adults are able to express to young people that they are living a real relationship with Jesus, faith is lived very differently...more deliberately.
