Theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar (1905-1988) was one of the most important Catholic voices of the twentieth century. In his view, a priest is called to imitate the Eucharistic Christ, who gives himself with abandon for the life of the world. He should aspire to be as common and as humble as bread, available to be blessed, broken, and distributed. Through his availability, God Himself becomes present to the world and the world becomes present to God.

This concise book presents Balthasar’s theology of discernment and vocation in a way that responds to current questions regarding the viability of the priestly and religious vocations today. Balthasar offers indispensable resources for understanding the relationship between personal freedom and vocation, showing how one becomes a person precisely through the reception of a definitive mission, a mission that makes a person truly ecclesial and thus open to both God and to others.

While the book is particularly focused on the priesthood, it will be of interest to priests, religious, and all those discerning God’s call. A short epilogue looks at Balthasar as a model for the theological vocation.

“With a literary quill and masterful synthetic powers, Dr. Ciraulo shows how von Balthasar understood Catholic priesthood as unfolding from the words of the Eucharistic institution. A much-needed book for our febrile age and indispensable reading for every seminarian and priest!”
—Fr. Emery de Gaál, Professor of Dogmatic Theology, University of St. Mary of the Lake

"Ciraulo shows a deep pastoral sensibility for the men he has been privileged to serve in seminary formation, as well as a clear understanding of the challenges and joys of priestly ministry. Do a seminarian or priest a favor and gift this book to him."
—Angela Franks, Associate Professor of Theology, Catholic University of America

“Here is a book that brings the reader deeper into the mind of Balthasar while also clarifying for seminarians and priests the dignity of their own vocation. Ciraulo is a master at conveying Balthasar’s thought.”
—Deacon James Keating, Professor of Spiritual Theology, Kenrick Glennon Seminary

“A clarion call to avoid the mediocrity of halfway measures and for all priests to pursue the evangelical counsels. I cannot recommend this text more highly for anyone discerning the call of Christ.”
—Larry Chapp, Retired Professor of Theology, DeSales University

“Ciraulo’s book masterfully expresses the often bewildering thought of von Balthasar to communicate the true nature of the priesthood―the enduring presence in the world of Christ’s kenotic love on the Cross. A beautiful book.”
—Fr. Christopher Seith, Director of Spiritual Formation, Saint John Paul II Seminary

“This little book is a gem. Balthasar has much to say about the priesthood, especially its path of crucified-eucharistic love he himself experienced. Professor Ciraulo offers an engaging and penetrating reflection on this great theologian’s central insights to inspire and encourage priestly renewal today.”
—Msgr. John Cihak, Author, Balthasar and Anxiety; Pastor, Christ the King Parish, Milwaukie, Ore.