Priesthood can bring unique challenges, including loneliness and isolation. On The Tim Glemkowski Show, Tim spoke with Father Max Behna about the Companions of Christ, an association offering diocesan priests another way: pursuing their vocation in intentional community.

The Companions remain diocesan priests serving parishes, but they commit to a rule of life centered on communion with Jesus and fraternity with brother priests.

“It’s just this intentional lifestyle of trying to pursue holiness, be in communion with Jesus, but to do that together with brother priests,” Father Behna explained.

That includes regular meals, prayer, study, and, when permitted by the bishop, living together even while serving separate assignments. Father Behna currently lives with two other priests. Together, they pray a Holy Hour every morning.

The Companions also voluntarily embrace the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience according to their priestly vocation. The goal is not simply companionship for its own sake, but a common life that strengthens each priest’s relationship with Christ and his service to God’s people.

The model is not for every diocesan priest, Father Behna emphasized. But for those called to it, brotherhood can offer important protection against isolation while fostering holiness and mission.

As Tim observed, “Communion is the ground of mission.” The Companions of Christ offer a compelling example of what that communion can look like: priests praying, growing, and serving together.

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