Nineteen deacons were ordained priests by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Basilica. It's a tradition that dates back more than 30 years to mark the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.
Pope Francis urged the new priests to take time when preparing their homilies.
POPE FRANCIS
'Your homilies should not be boring. Your homilies should reach people's hearts, because they come from your heart. What you tell parishioners is what you have in your heart.â?
Even beyond words, the best example he said are actions. Words can be empty and sometimes even cause pain. He then called on the new priests to show mercy when administering Confession.
POPE FRANCIS
'When it comes to Confession, you are there to forgive, not to condemn! Imitate the Lord, who never tires of forgiving.â?
In addition to the tips Pope Francis gave the new priests, he also gave some warnings, especially regarding the temptation to show off.
POPE FRANCIS
'Carry out your priestly ministry of Christ with joy and charity. Make sure your intention is to please God and not yourselves. It's ugly when a priest only lives to praise himself and show off.â?
He then told them that Mass should not be celebrated in a hurry, for it is not, he added an artificial rite.
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