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Pope Leo XIV addressed priests during a gathering in Rome, emphasizing the joy and friendship inherent in their vocation. The event, part of the Jubilee of Priests, took place at the Conciliazione Auditorium on June 26.
“The priest’s happiness reflects his encounter with Christ, sustaining him in mission and service,” Pope Leo stated. He highlighted that this joy stems from Jesus' words, “I have called you friends,” which he described as central to understanding priestly ministry.
Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik welcomed the pope by noting that "a happy priest is the best proclamation of the Gospel." The pope responded by affirming that their joy is rooted in Christ calling them as friends: “a grace we want to welcome with gratitude and responsibility.”
Pope Leo also referenced Pope Francis’ 2024 encyclical “‘Dilexit Nos’ (‘He Loved Us’): on the Human and Divine Love of the Heart of Jesus Christ.” He explained that it is from this "burning" heart that their vocation originates.
Addressing concerns about faith drifting away among people, especially youth, Pope Leo expressed a desire to rediscover missionary momentum. “Many seem to have drifted away from faith, yet deep inside many people... there is a thirst for the infinite and for salvation,” he said.
The pope thanked priests for their dedication: “For you remind everyone that it is good to be priests.” He encouraged them to seek companionship and spiritual guidance when needed.
“Live this beautiful experience of walking together... We have a great mission, and together we can all do it," he concluded.
Carol Glatz reported this story for Catholic News Service Rome.
