Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of celibacy as a charism to be acknowledged, conserved, and educated during a meeting with seminarians. He drew parallels to Saint Augustine's 'Confessions,' encouraging the seminarians to trust in the Lord and not feel alone in their journey of discernment. The Pope highlighted the significance of cultivating communion with seminary companions and formators, urging them to offer humble witness and sincere affection. He concluded by quoting Father Robert Hugh Benson, emphasizing that encountering Jesus gives strength and joy to communicate the Gospel.
4 days ago
Pope Leo XIV addressed seminarians from the Triveneto region of Italy, offering guidance and encouragement as they progress in their formation 1. The address took place on Wednesday, June 26th, as part of the Jubilee of Seminarians events in Rome 1.
A key theme of the Pope's address was the importance of celibacy. Pope Leo XIV described celibacy as a charism that must be "acknowledged, conserved and educated" 1. He encouraged the seminarians to embrace this charism with trust in God 1.
Pope Leo urged the seminarians to have "boundless trust in the Lord," renouncing self-sufficiency 1. He emphasized the importance of community, advising them to cultivate communion with their seminary companions and trust in their formators 1. The Pope also reminded the seminarians that they are supported by the Church 1. He drew on examples from Saint Augustine and Fr. Robert Hugh Benson to illustrate the importance of faith and friendship with Christ 1.
In addition to the address, Pope Leo XIV blessed over 2,500 seminarians from 57 countries who had gathered in Rome for the Jubilee of Seminarians 1. The Vatican estimated that the number of seminarians participating in the Jubilee could have been as high as 4,000 1. The Pope thanked them for "courageously accepting the Lord’s invitation" 1.
The Catholic Church affirms the value of priestly celibacy.
The Catholic Church indeed values priestly celibacy, viewing it as a special gift from God that enriches the priesthood and signifies the priest's undivided love for God and His people .
While celibacy is highly valued in the Latin Church, it is not intrinsically demanded by the priesthood itself, as seen in the traditions of the Eastern Churches, where both celibate and married priests serve . The Church acknowledges both marriage and celibacy as gifts from God, each with its own specific charism and vocation .