Don't be isolated from the faithful, Pope advises new bishops
September 18, 2014
Addressing a group of newly ordained bishops on September 18, Pope Francis said that “nothing is more important than introducing people to God!”
“Love the people that God gave you,” the Pope exhorted the new bishops. He admonished them not to isolate themselves from their people by relying on staffs. “When a shepherd hides or is unreachable, pastoral care and the salvation of souls are at risk,” the Pope said.
Observing that “we do not need superficially happy bishops,” the Holy Father said that every bishop should “dig deeper to discover what the Spirit continues to inspire in your bride.”
The Pope was speaking to an annual course for bishops ordained during the past year, held in Rome under the joint auspices of the Congregation for Bishops and the Congregation for Evangelization.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Pope Francis receives new bishops (Vatican Radio)
- Francis to bishops: men able to cultivate God's fields (VIS)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
