Fr. Bill’s CD Lyrics
Paintbrush in the Green : Priest of Mine
((I consider this an Irish song, for very good reasons. In 2003, preparing to attend the Intercession for Priests retreat in Dublin, I was praying and trying to intercede for the priests who were struggling the most at that time in their vocations. I got the sense that the Intercession needed its own song. I prayed before the Blessed Sacrament, and these lyrics came. When I sang it the last day of the retreat as a Communion reflection, I found that a young priest was there who could not make the whole week. He only came the last day…turns out he needed these words to minister to him in a crisis moment. God works in mysterious ways…and some days he works through my own songs to minister to me.)
Never forget, my brother, you’re a Priest of Mine
From the crush of the vineyard
By my grace I make new wine
As you come into my presence
Other Christ you’re my delight
Rest before this mystery divine
That you’re a Priest of Mine
From the day I ordained you
Even long before your birth
My own heart conceived your priesthood
None can comprehend its worth
Come before me with your worries
Trust my will, say "let it be"…
Share with me the joys and burdens of your mind
’Cause you’re a Priest of Mine
Don’t despair, my brother,
I’m the only perfect one
Hold the hand of my mother
And keep your eyes upon her Son
Come to me—I know your pain
I will make your losses gain
Be a "fool for the Gospel" and you’ll find
That you’re a Priest of Mine
Let my presence fill your days
In your soul you’ll sing my name
Take up crosses for my glory
Seek humility, not fame
Let my mother wrap her mantle
Like a vestment on your heart…
I’ll make your struggle and your sacrifice a sign
That you’re a Priest of Mine