Pope: Priestly formation is a pilgrimage toward Christ
By Devin Watkins
Pope Francis met Thursday with seminarians from the Major Interdiocesan Seminary of Santiago de Compostela, Tui-Vigo, and Mondoñedo-Ferrol.
He praised the men and their superiors for undertaking a joint formation program across the three northwestern Spanish dioceses, and encouraged them in this challenging endeavor.
They hail from the areas surrounding the cathedral where the Apostle St. James the Great is buried, toward which hundreds of thousands of pilgrims journey each year along the Camino de Santiago, guided by painted yellow arrows, known locally as âlas flechas amarillasâ.
âNever stop being those âyellow arrowsâ that, like St. John the Baptist, point to Jesus,â said the Pope, âand tell everyone, with your words but especially with your way of life: âBehold the Lamb of Godâ.â
In his prepared remarks, he noted that all pilgrims feel a call to step out of themselves as they embark on their adventure.
âThe same applies to priestly formation,â he said, adding that the goal âis to become shepherds of Godâs people, shepherds forged according to the measure of the Heart of Christ, humble and merciful.â
Pope Francis reminded the Spanish seminarians that they are never alone on their journey, since Christ always accompanies them through their formators and companions.
âDo not be afraid to open your heart to the Lord and let Him accompany you, so that He may shape your life,â he said.
In conclusion, Pope Francis invited the future priests to be a light for those they encounter who are facing difficult situations or are estranged from God.
âBe witnesses to the joy of the Gospel for all of them,â he concluded, âoffering the Lordâs tenderness and comfort so He may heal the blisters of their journey.â
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