A priest is most commonly known for celebrating Mass. The Eucharist is the centre of both the priest's life and the life of the Church. It is Christ, present in the Eucharist, whom we worship and adore. The priest and the whole community are nourished and sustained by Christ's presence in the Word of God and the Blessed Sacrament.

At Mass the Catholic community gathers to worship God, hear his Word and receive him in Holy Communion. Altar serving is among those liturgical ministries that can inspire a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Many of today's priests first considered their vocation in their teenage years.

The priest is called to proclaim God's Word. He does this in a special way in the homily when he explains the Gospel teaching to build up the faith and life of the people. A priest has to communicate with a wide audience of different ages and backgrounds which requires the grace of God as well as skill and commitment on his part.