May 18 Mon
Should the priests separate themselves from “the world”?
Recently, Pope Leo XIV ordained a group of priests in St. Peter's Basilica.
The Pope described the priesthood as a "ministry of communion." Life in abundance comes to us in our deeply personal encounter with the person of the Son, but it immediately opens our eyes to our brothers and sisters who are already experiencing, or who are still seeking, the “power to become children of God.”
The deeper your bond with Christ, the more radical your belonging to all of humanity. There is no opposition, nor competition, between heaven and earth; in Jesus, you are united forever.
The Holy Spirit unites people and vocations in freedom, so that no one lives for themselves any longer. The Spirit calls us out of the “tomb” of isolation and seclusion, so that we can meet in the garden of communion where the Risen One is our guardian.
Like the love of spouses, the love that inspires celibacy for the Kingdom of God must also be guarded and constantly renewed, for every true affection matures and becomes fruitful over time. The priests are called to a specific and delicate way of loving and, even more so, of allowing themselves to be loved in freedom. This will make them not only good priests but also honest, helpful citizens, builders of peace and social friendship.
This is another secret for the life of the priest: we must not be frightened by reality. It is the Lord of life who calls us.
Today’s search for security can lead to fear, division, and hostility. Instead, the priests must find their stability in Christ, rather than in their role or status.
Even these communities the priest serves must also help them to become saints.
You will encounter people who will direct you towards him. For your part, help them to walk together, following Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
The Pope encouraged the priests to foster unity, helping people come together.
Coming together always means planting the Church anew.
"I am the gate," Jesus said. Do not block this gate; the priests are to ensure that the Church remains accessible.
The Pope then insisted that priests should not act as gatekeepers who restrict access, but as channels, not filters.
In a context where many people feel distant from the Church, keep doors open and be ready both to welcome and to go out.
You belong to everyone and are for everyone.
He also emphasized that the Church should not confine people, but help them engage more fully with life. Quoting the Gospel, he noted that those who are saved "enter, go out, and find pasture."
Bringing his homily to a close, the Pope encouraged the new priests to engage with the wider world, including culture and everyday life.
This salvation is already at work in the many good deeds that are quietly carried out by people of goodwill in the parishes and other settings where you will join them as fellow travelers. Thus, what you proclaim and celebrate will protect you, even in difficult times.