(May 01, 2013) The missionary prayer intention for the month of May is - That
seminaries, especially those of mission churches, may form pastors after the heart
of Christ, fully dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel........... In its deepest
identity the seminary is called to be, in its own way a continuation in the Church
of the apostolic community gathered around Jesus, listening to his word and awaiting
the gift of the Spirit for the mission. From the human point of view, the major seminary
should try to become a community built on deep friendship and charity, so that it
can be considered a true family living in joy. In his Regina Coeli message on the
“World Day of Prayer for Vocations” April 21, Pope Francis asked hundreds of young
Catholics in St. Peter’s Square, if they had ever heard the voice of Christ inviting
them to follow him more closely. Urging the youth to strive for high ideals, Pope
Francis told them to ask Jesus what he wants and be brave to follow him. He said behind
every vocation to the priesthood or consecrated life, there is always a strong and
intense prayer maybe from a mother, a brother or even a community. Vocations are born
in prayer and from prayer, and only in prayer can they persevere and bear fruit, he
said. Pope Francis told the young people to learn from Jesus who described himself
as meek and humble of heart, and leave behind all earthly desire for his sake and
dedicate themselves to proclaiming the Gospel with constant joy and genuine love.