Pope Benedict: Jesus Christ is the key to priestly life

This year the Pontifical Seminaries of Campania, Calabria and Umbria in Italy are celebrating the Centenary of their inauguration and it was on this occasion that Pope Benedict meet with Staff and Seminarians of these institutions on Thursday in the Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Palace.

The Pope speaking to those gathered underlined the important role regional seminaries play in the life of a diocese adding, that they are places that foster knowledge, encourage an ability to work together and provide an enriching ecclesial experience for future priests.

Focusing on the regions in question, the Holy Father described Umbria as a place of spirituality and pilgrimage which was the birthplace of St Francis and St Benedict, while also noting how this small region has been affected by the economic downturn. Referring to Calabria and Campania, Pope Benedict called them areas of strong traditions and devotions which should result, he said, in “renewed evangelisation.”

Turning to the life and work of the priest, the Pope stressed the importance of learning about the structure of the faith as a whole.

He also added that "for the priest, who will accompany others along the way to the door of life and death, it is important that he puts in balance the heart and intellect, reason and feeling, body and soul.

In concluding remarks, the Holy Father said, the most important thing in the priesthood and during the whole of priestly life is the personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ. Listen to Lydia O'Kane's report.