Pakistani Oblate Priest Publishes Book on Living Christ’s Presence in Modern Ministry

An Oblate of Mary Immaculate priest has published a book exploring how Catholic priests can embody Christ’s presence amid secularization, skepticism and the challenges of ministry in an increasingly digital world.

In Persona Christi: A Profound Exploration of the Priesthood in Christ, written by Fr. Cecil Paul OMI, director of the Oblate Juniorate and Oblate Media Centre in Multan, was launched on October 13 at the Oblate Juniorate in the city in Punjab province, eastern Pakistan.

Bishop Yousaf Sohan of Multan attended the launch, along with approximately 100 participants, including priests, religious sisters, seminarians and lay Catholics. The event was hosted by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI).

Introducing the book, Fr. Paul explained that it examines the theological meaning of In Persona Christi, a Latin expression meaning “in the person of Christ,” through Scripture and the Second Vatican Council’s decree on the ministry and life of priests, Presbyterorum Ordinis.

The book explores both the sacramental dimensions of ordained ministry and their practical implications for priests serving contemporary communities.

Fr. Paul said that representing Christ in today’s world requires particular attention to authenticity, integrity and holiness, especially amid rapid advances in science and technology and growing secular influences.

He described the publication as a spiritual companion intended to help priests navigate contemporary pastoral challenges and rediscover the joy and holiness of their vocation.

The opening chapter is dedicated to the late Bishop Andrew Francis of Multan, who died in 2017. The remaining chapters trace the development of priesthood from Genesis through the four Gospels, combining biblical and theological reflection with personal experiences and the everyday challenges of priestly life.

Bishop Sohan commended the book as a timely resource for priestly formation and ministry, highlighting its emphasis on pastoral dedication and sacrificial love. He said its reflections connect the biblical foundations of priesthood with the challenges facing clergy in Pakistan today.

Fr. Basharat Exupear OMI, superior of the Oblate delegation in Pakistan, discussed the book’s biblical foundations, tracing the understanding of priesthood from the Old Testament to the Gospels.

He praised Fr. Paul for presenting complex theological concepts in ways that can guide priests in their daily lives and help them maintain spiritual resilience and pastoral integrity.

Fr. Pascal Palus, provincial of the Dominican Order in Pakistan, emphasized the communal dimension of the priestly vocation. He called for prayerful, Christ-centered communities in which clergy and laypeople work together in their shared mission.

Palus also recalled the enduring influence of Bishop Francis, whose leadership continues to inspire religious communities in Multan.

In his closing remarks, Fr. Paul thanked Bishop Sohan, his religious superiors, participants and the wider Oblate community for their support. He also acknowledged CYRIL Enterprises, the publisher, for bringing the book to print.

The publication adds to resources available for priestly formation in Pakistan, where Catholic communities continue to develop pastoral ministries in a predominantly Muslim society. Its emphasis on Scripture, spiritual life and practical ministry seeks to help priests connect the Church’s theological tradition with the realities of contemporary pastoral service.