During an audience with seminarians from the Archdiocese of Toledo, Spain, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of personal encounters with Jesus. He stressed that only through loving encounters with Christ can individuals find illumination, sustenance, and support throughout their earthly journey.
The Pope encouraged the seminarians to maintain closeness to God, bishops, and the faithful People of God. He highlighted three fundamental elements of the priesthood: celebrating the Eucharist, adoring the Blessed Sacrament, and participating in processions.
Pope Francis reflected on the Eucharist, stating that Jesus’ presence in our lives demonstrates the greatest love. He emphasized the significance of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, describing it as a time for silent reflection, listening to God’s voice, and witnessing faith.
The Pontiff reminded the seminarians that their ministry is to accompany Christ to his people and the people to Christ. He encouraged them to walk together, guided by Jesus, and to cultivate hope in the sacramental encounter.
Father Valentin Aparicio, vice-rector of the Major Seminary of Toledo, shared that Pope Francis also stressed the need to flee worldliness and return to contemplation and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Among the seminarians was a participant in the musical “Original. Carlo’s Passage,” which aims to evangelize through the life of future Saint Carlo Acutis. The young seminarian presented the Pope with a poster and a CD from the musical.
Pope Francis’ words serve as a reminder to seminarians and clergy to prioritize their relationship with Jesus, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in accompanying Christ and his people.