Pope Leo XIV ordained 11 new priests in Rome, urging them to lead transparent and credible lives. The Pope emphasized the importance of priests serving as stewards and witnesses of God's love in a divided world. He highlighted the need to rebuild the Church's credibility through reconciliation and inclusivity. The ordination ceremony, held at St. Peter's Basilica, was described as a moment of joy and a sign of God's continued gathering of his children. The Pope encouraged the new priests to consecrate themselves to the people they encounter, without isolating themselves or treating their gift as a privilege.
12 days ago
Pope Leo XIV ordained 11 new priests for the Diocese of Rome at St. Peter's Basilica on May 31, 2025 1 2. The ordination Mass included seminarians from the Pontifical Roman Major Seminary and the Redemptoris Mater Seminary 1 2. The Pope described the event as a moment of great joy for the Church 1 2.
Pope Leo XIV urged the newly ordained priests to live lives that are "transparent, visible, credible" in their service to God's people 1 2. He emphasized the necessity of credibility in priestly life, drawing on St. Paul's example 1 2. The Pope cautioned against clerical self-isolation and entitlement, referencing Pope Francis' warnings against self-referentiality 1 2. He stated, "It does not matter to be perfect, but it is necessary to be credible" 1 2.
Pope Leo XIV reflected on the Church's mission of reconciliation in a broken world 1 2. He called on the new priests to help "rebuild the credibility of a wounded Church, sent to a wounded humanity, within a wounded creation" 1 2. He emphasized that even signs of rejection and wounds can become sources of forgiveness and hope 1. The Pope encouraged the priests to be "ministers of hope" who view everything "under the sign of reconciliation" 1.
Pope Leo XIV stressed that the priesthood is not about authority but stewardship 1 2. He stated, "Not masters, but guardians," emphasizing that the mission belongs to Jesus 1 2. He described priestly service as participation in Christ's love for the world, "a possession that liberates and enables us not to possess anyone" 1.
Pope Leo XIV told the new priests that their ministry, like that of the Pope and bishops, is to gather all people into the Church 4. He urged them to "make room for the faithful and for every creature" 4. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and encouraging the common priesthood of all believers that flows from baptism 4.
The ordination was originally scheduled for May 10 but was postponed due to the death of Pope Francis on April 21 4.
What is the Catholic Church's understanding of priestly ministry?
The Catholic Church views priestly ministry as a vocation and service, rooted in the priesthood of Christ and essential for the Church's mission . Priests are called to act in the person of Christ, the Head, and to serve the people of God through preaching, administering the sacraments, and pastoral care .
Here's a breakdown of the Church's understanding:
In summary, the Catholic Church understands priestly ministry as a unique participation in the priesthood of Christ, conferred through the sacrament of Holy Orders. Priests act in the person of Christ to preach the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and provide pastoral care, all for the building up of the Church and the glory of God .