In his homily at Chrism Mass, Pope Francis gave a profound lesson on the priesthood.
He explained why it is important for a priest to be close to the people. In this way they will be able to notice the needs of the people, just like the Blessed Mother did at the Wedding of Cana.
POPE FRANCIS
“We must be present wherever the important things are 'concocted:' the important things that count for every heart, every family, every culture. Only through this kind of closeness, we can call it 'kitchen-closeness,' can we discern what wine is missing, and what type is the best-quality wine that the Lord wants to provide.”
Pope Francis stressed that closeness is important because it helps one know the truth. Otherwise, people are unfairly or superficially labeled. Having proximity is key.
POPE FRANCIS
“If we are close to people, Jesus will be present in the life of humanity. If not, He will remain in abstract ideas, restricted to letters on a page, incarnate at most in some good habit that little by little becomes routine.”
The pope explained that one can be close in three areas: speaking with people to help them discover their mistakes, without offending them. The second area would be confession; and the last one is through preaching. Through these, it is evident if the priest is connected with God and with the people.
At the Chrism Mass, the institution of Holy Orders is remembered and the bishop of each diocese in the world blesses the oils and chrism that is used throughout the year in Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders.
