The Canonical Old Roman Catholic Clerical Directory

In his article “Fidem Servare: Worker Priests,” Archbishop Jerome Lloyd addresses the ongoing vocational crisis within the Church and proposes the revival of the “worker-priest” model as a solution. He notes that the decline in vocations has led to a shortage of clergy, particularly in rural and underserved areas, resulting in limited access to the sacraments and pastoral care. The Archbishop suggests that priests engage in secular employment alongside their ministerial duties, allowing them to support themselves financially while remaining accessible to their communities. This approach, he argues, not only addresses the practical challenges of clergy shortages but also fosters a deeper connection between priests and the laity, as they share in the everyday experiences of their congregations. By adopting this model, the Church can “keep the faith” (fidem servare) and ensure the continued presence of pastoral care in all communities.