Pope Francis met with students of the Pontifical North American College, where seminarians from around the United States continue their priestly formation in Rome.
These are young people who have come here from different parts of America, looking to the Vatican hill to strengthen their faith and their love for the Roman Pontiff.
The Pope told them that the three most important elements for formation are dialogue, communion and mission. He invited them to take care of dialogue by speaking daily with Jesus through prayer, meditation on the Word of God, spiritual accompaniment and silence before the Tabernacle.
To live in communion, Pope Francis asked the men to be attentive to the different ways in which they can live the faith in the Eternal City.
During your years in Rome, I invite you to keep your eyes open, on the mystery of the unity of the Church revealed in diversity, but also on living the oneness of faith.
To find their mission, Pope Francis asked them not to lose sight of the many works of charity that can be seen in Rome.
I trust that, as the works of spiritual and corporal mercy flourish through the various educational and charitable apostolates in which you are engaged, you will always be a sign of a Church that goes out and walks in encounter.
The Pontifical North American College was founded on December 8, 1859.
RM
TR: KG
