(January 31, 2009) Holy Father’s General Intention for the month of February is that
the Church's pastors may be ever more docile to the action of the Holy Spirit as they
teach and serve the people of God. This month Pope Benedict XVI asks us to pray for
Pastors- Bishops, Priests and deacons-that they may allow themselves to be directed
by the Holy Spirit as they teach and serve. A pastor of the church is a shepherd
whose job is to protect and feed the flock, and even like the Good Shepherd, to lay
down his life for the sheep. To serve others as Christ did require that pastors allow
themselves to be led by the Holy Spirit. For it is only by the Holy Spirit that a
person can understand the truth of the Gospel, much less teach and serve in accordance
with it. The Spirit is powerful but it does not overwhelm one’s free will. A person,
who seeks to be guided by the Holy Spirit, must be docile and willing to be led by
him. Pope Benedict urges all pastors to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in prayer.
“A fundamental priority of the priestly life,” said the Holy Father, “is to be with
the Lord and thus to have time for Prayer.” A priest who lives with the Lord will
be available to men and women, the sick, the suffering, the dying and the children.
The Holy Spirit wants to transform all pastors into the image of Christ, and wants
to enlighten, strengthen and guide them into fruitful service that glorifies God.
Therefore the intention invites us to pray that all will seek the guidance of the
Holy Spirit in everything they do. We also pray for the pastors that they may be
available to the task, obedient to the Holy Spirit.