The Pope met with this group of priests from the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, the home for the community of French Catholics in the Eternal City.
As a cardinal, Pope Francis would visit this church during his trips to Rome. It houses 'The Vocation of St. Matthew,' by Caravaggio. A masterpiece he admires for its profound message.
The Pope advised them against a priesthood 'isolated from the people of God', since he says it 'is not Christian.'
POPE FRANCIS
“I invite you all to look towards wide horizons, to dream of a Church in service of all, of a world of fraternity and solidarity. You can contribute to this. Do not be afraid to dare, to take risks, to keep moving forward because you can do anything with Christ, who gives you strength.”
The Pope reminded them that the 'priest is a man who spreads the sense of God around him and transmits hope to restless hearts in the light of the Gospel.' That's why he said they should not always look so serious.
POPE FRANCIS
'Priestly joy is the source of your action as missionaries of your time.'
Before ending the meeting, Pope Francis thanked his longtime French translator, Monsignor Jean Landousies, ahead of his retirement this month. He remembered how in spite of a long illness, Fr. Landousies was a living 'testimony of a happy and coherent priest.'
Daniel Diaz Vizzi
TR: JM
MG
