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A Firm Appeal to Korean Roman Catholic Priests Serving in the United States of America ?!

Today, I write with a firm and honest message to Korean Roman Catholic priests serving in the United States of America. This is not an attack, but a direct reflection of concerns that many parishioners quietly carry. Even if the message feels uncomfortable, I ask that you receive it with sincerity.

I understand the loneliness and stress that come with living alone as a priest. I have lived alone myself, so I know the challenges. But understanding does not mean agreement. The issue I must address is the lack of moderation in alcohol consumption among some priests.

The Catholic Church does not forbid drinking, and within the Korean Catholic community, drinking is often accepted as normal. That is not the problem. The real issue is who you drink with, how much you drink, and what condition you present yourself in afterward.

To give a concrete example: some priests spend late Saturday nights drinking, only to appear at Sunday Mass tired, unfocused, or visibly unprepared. Parishioners may not speak up, but they notice. And they are disappointed. A priest’s smallest action can shape a parishioner’s faith.

There is a saying: “A small issue ignored today becomes a crisis tomorrow.” In Korean, we say, “가래로 막을 것을 호미로 막지 않는다.” If a priest does not exercise self-discipline, a small lapse can grow into a serious breach of trust within the community. As spiritual leaders, priests must hold themselves to a higher standard. As the saying goes, “When I do it, it’s romance; when others do it, it’s wrongdoing.” Priests must be stricter with themselves.

It is also essential not to be swayed by parishioners’ expectations or social pressure. Priests are the spiritual center of the community, and the faithful look to them for guidance. Moderation is not optional—it is a responsibility.

This message is not meant to diminish the priesthood but to protect its dignity and preserve the trust of the faithful. I deeply respect the dedication of our priests, and I urge sincere reflection for the sake of a healthier and more spiritually grounded community.