June 24, 2009. During his general audience, the pope said pilgrims that the Year for Priests has the objective of helping priests renew their desire for holiness, which is central to the effectiveness of their ministry.


Benedict XVI
"May this Year for Priests help all priests to grow towards the spiritual perfection essential to the effectiveness of their ministry, and enable the faithful to appreciate more fully the great gift of grace which the priesthood is: for priests themselves, for the Church and for our world."  

With the close of the Pauline year and the start of the Year for Priests, the pope invited priests to follow the examples of Saint Paul and Saint John Vianney, who carried out their ministry living in constant communion with God.


RS