This Vademecum ("go with me") is offered, not to tell priests what they ought to know, but to provide them with a resource from which they can draw, with renewed inspiration, encouragement and insight, to enable them to meditate on what has been written about the priestly office in scripture, the Fathers of the Church, Conciliar and Papal teaching and writers to the present day.

It is hoped that priests will use this book to reflect on their calling and find in it something which will be a true vademecum, “go with me”, be it a word, a sentence or a thought. It is also hoped that the laity too will find here a deeper understanding of what and who their priests are, thus enabling them to be proud of their priests, love them more and recognise with gratitude their pastoral work and the witness they give.

Arranged for daily reading throughout the year, the readings follow no particular pattern, apart from those for Sundays, which are taken from scripture or the Catechism of the Catholic Church, thereby beginning each week from fundamental sources.

"In the life of the priest a time of meditation every day is important. There are many sources on which to meditate. But I hope this Vademecum will find its place in the books close to each priest’s favourite place of prayer. This book will also serve to help deepen the understanding of the priesthood among all Catholics. The Church in this country is very blessed by the kindness that is offered to priests by so many people, by the friendship which is given to them and by the respect in which they are held. These things matter greatly to us priests. So I hope that many people will dip into this book to understand a little more about the great dignity of the priesthood which they instinctively recognise.

The Church in England and Wales is proud of its priests. I hope that this publication helps us to appreciate even more the great gift of the priesthood and the generosity of those who give their life in its service."
Archbishop Vincent Nichols in his foreword to the book.

The book, available in a choice of three colours to the cover, has a ribbon marker and will make a fine gift to anyone, priest or laity, wanting to reflect on the richness of the gift of the priesthood.

Stephen Moseling, formerly an Anglican parish priest, is the Operations Co-ordinator for St Pauls in the U.K..