Is it proper to question a priest concerning his credentials

A. No, it is not a breach of propriety to ask to see a priest's credentials. If he is unable to produce them within a reasonable time, you might write to the diocese where he was ordained or to the religious order from which he comes. Such records are very carefully kept at his place of origin. His baptismal record also would have a notification of ordination. Priests ordained in Canada are not normally found in the U. S. Catholic Directory. Also, priests ordained in Europe and Switzerland by Archbishop Lefebvre. These priests should possess their documents of Ordination to the Priesthood and they should show them to you if you ask for them humbly and sincerely.

There have been several cases in the last few years where lay people have gone about playing themselves off as real priests, saying Mass in Latin, preaching fine sermons, and even hearing confessions. The faithful need to be careful. This column cannot provide you with a list of authentic priests because it would take more time and space than I have. Besides, there are more than I know or could remember!