Every day is a blessing
Fr Andrew Kim
It’s been five years since I left Korea to start my new life in New Zealand. After coming here, I had a year of discerning, a year at Holy Cross Seminary, and a pastoral placement.
I clearly recall my ordination two years ago as a blessed day. I felt full of love from my family, friends, congregations and, most importantly for me, from the hand of Cardinal John and other senior priests.
After 20 years of discerning, on the day of my ordination I felt a strong sense of certainty in my life as a priest.
Coming from a different culture was a challenge. I’ve had to deal with a new language and a new culture, which I continue to learn about.
Being a priest means endurance, effort and prayer. Having the congregation’s support, prayers and love gives me hope and energy. I’ve had some challenges in my two years as a priest, but I believe these experiences have been a blessing and stepping-stones to become who I am today.
Fr Andrew Kim is assistant priest at Te Awakairangi Parish, Lower Hutt.