VATICAN - From the seminar resources for the mission: Cardinal Filoni to the seminarians of Kinshasa

Friday, 6 July 2012

Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) - "The seminar is like a barn, where one must pay careful attention, because it determines the sustenance of the family, which is the Church. From here we must draw the necessary resources for the Mission." Using this metaphor Cardinal Fernando Filoni, Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, spoke to the seminarians and their instructors, with a speech delivered this morning, July 6, in Kinshasa. "It is very important for you to appreciate and make the most of this period - said the Cardinal - which offers valuable and unique opportunity to acquire intellectual knowledge and human and spiritual growth. The time of formation in the seminary is a time of grace, to live in all its fullness, with a great sense of commitment and responsibility."
On the way to priesthood "it is essential to reserve special attention to your spiritual life," underlined Cardinal Filoni, recalling the days, punctuated by the rhythm of the liturgical prayer, "they must always find their central moment in the celebration of Mass," he also recommended the celebration of the sacrament of Penance and spiritual direction, in addition to personal prayer. "This intimate contact with the Lord - he continued - will help you understand how essential it is to safeguard the precious gift of chastity and celibacy, with a constant watch on yourself, on how to manage one’s free time and on the use of media social communication."
An element not to be overlooked, that the Pope calls "priority", is theologicalformation: in front of many of today’s evils arising from doctrinal confusion, "it is therefore necessary to follow the true source of the Magisterium, that provides clear and safe guidelines " reiterated the Prefect. Finally, the Seminar is "a true school of humanity, ie a place where one does apprentice of community life" highlighted the Cardinal Prefect, recalling the important role of instructors, to whom he addressed this exhortation: "you must be examples in this field for young people entrusted to you." (SL) (Agenzia Fides 06/07/2012)


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