Pope Leo XIV gives several recommendations to future priests when addressing in the Vatican the Pontifical Portuguese College in Rome, and also thanks the religious sisters who assist, suggesting that the sense of motherhood they offer is precious.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
“Keep entrusting your life to the Heart of the Lord; draw ever closer to Him and learn mercy from Him!”
Pope Leo XIV gave this reminder Monday morning when receiving in the Vatican the Pontifical Portuguese College in Rome, on the 125th anniversary of its founding in 1898, which has served as a residence for Portuguese and other priests pursuing advanced studies.
The Holy Father recalled that it had been Pope Leo XIII, “moved by the spiritual good which the Portuguese Bishops foresaw for their dioceses through the formation of their clergy in Rome,” founded it at the conclusion of a process in which the Viscounts of São João da Pesqueira played an important role.
“Looking back, therefore, and reflecting on the foundation of your College,” Pope Leo said, “we find both clergy and laity united on the same journey, committed to the same goals, in order to better promote the proclamation of the Gospel.”
The heart of Christ
The Holy Father acknowledged the anniversary’s falling within the Jubilee year, underscoring, “Jubilee years are a time to grow in awareness of the gift of mercy that flows from the Heart of Christ.”
It is precisely the Sacred Heart, he observed, that has marked the history of the Portuguese College from the beginning. Even appearing in its coat of arms, he recalled its first students consecrated themselves to the Lord, and encouraged, “Continue to do so!”
Configuring yourselves to the Good Shepherd
“A College consecrated to the Heart of Christ,” he marveled, “is a school of divine mercy, in which students — imitating the beloved disciple — ‘lean back against Jesus’ chest’ and thus listen to the heartbeat of God’s love, becoming true theologians.”
“Indeed, a priest — whatever mission is entrusted to him,” the Pope illustrated, “always finds in it an opportunity to configure himself to the Good Shepherd.”
“He does not need only a heart of flesh, a human and wise heart, but he feels the need for a heart like that of Jesus,” he highlighted, “always united with the Father, passionate for the Church, and full of compassion.”
“By pausing in the Lord’s presence after demanding days of work,” Pope Leo advised, “you can find rest in Him and “stitch back together” the unity of your lives.”
He told them to always ask the Lord for a heart capable of loving the Church as He did.
Remain close to the Lord
Moreover, he told them to present Jesus to their Bishops and diocesan communities, and even now, pray for the faithful whom you will one day serve in your countries.
“Remain close to the Lord Jesus,” he urged, “through listening to His Word, the celebration of the Sacraments — especially the Eucharist — through Adoration, spiritual discernment, and fraternal kindness among yourselves.”
The Holy Father also told them that during their time in Rome they are to build themselves a “home”, that is, a homely environment where, returning from your academic responsibilities, “you may feel like family,” “a collegial home, which is also welcoming — as the Church must be.”
Pope Leo also recalled the welcome of the College to Jews during the Second World War, as a responsibility and witness of fraternity.
Special thanks to the sisters
Finally, the Holy Father told them to work together with the support of the Rector and the Spiritual Fathers, and also with the precious presence of the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Victories.
“Thank you, dear Sisters,” Pope Leo said, “for your dedication to the priests, for the prayers you raise to Heaven on their behalf, and for your maternal attitude!”
“The closeness of spiritual motherhood,” he continued, “cannot be replaced by anyone, and you have been offering and refining it for fifty years: though discreet, it is not hidden from God. Thank you!”
Pope Leo XIV concluded by asking those present to pray for him and by saying, “this month, as you pray the Rosary, ask the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima, for me, for the Church, and for peace.”
