Pope Francis reflects on the priesthood
November 11, 2014
Pope Francis has sent a message to the Italian episcopate on the priesthood as the nation’s bishops gathered in Assisi to discuss priestly life and formation.
One of the principal duties of bishops, he said in the message, released November 11, is to “confirm, support, and strengthen” priests in their ministry. He paid tribute to the many priests who have spent their lives in their parishes: educating children, visiting the sick, and assisting the poor, thus drawing others to follow in their footsteps.
“Holy priests are pardoned sinners and instruments of pardon,” he continued. “Their existence speaks the language of patience and perseverance.” The priest’s journey of discipleship is “permanent,” he added, since dedication can grow cold.
Pope Francis warned against priests whose behavior alienates people from the Lord as well as “priestly functionaries” who seek “consolation” outside their vocation. The Pope also spoke of the importance of self-giving, “custody of the senses,” prayer, “daily discipline,” and “humble and prophetic witness.”
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