Pope Benedict inaugurates the Year for Priests

June 19, 2009

Pope Benedict XVI formally opened the Year for Priests with a Vespers service in St. Peter's basilica on June 19, the feast of the Sacred Heart. Quoting the Curé of Ars-- whom he had cited as a model for parish priests in his letter to the clergy, released the day earlier-- the Holy Father said: "Priesthood is love of the heart of Christ." He added: “How can we fail to remember that the gift our priestly ministry springs directly from this heart?”

 

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Further information:

• Pope: May the pierced heart of Christ inflame the heart of every priest (AsiaNews)
• The Year for Priests Explained: a quest for pastoral zeal (CWN Feature, Jun 18)