During the Mass celebrated for the ordination of new priests, Pope Leo XIV delivered a clear and profound message: to live the ministry with ardent faith, constant prayer and generous dedication to God and his people.

1. A priesthood born from the love of God

Leo XIV began his homily by recalling that the foundation of every priestly vocation is a living and personal relationship with the Lord. “Without the love of God there is no true priesthood,” he said. He encouraged new priests to cultivate this bond every day as a source of meaning, strength, and joy.

2. Prayer, oxygen of the priestly soul

The Pontiff insisted that prayer must be the centerpiece of a priest’s life. “A priest who does not pray slowly fades away,” he warned. He encouraged them to practice persevering and confident prayer, both privately and in community, which regenerates their spirit and sustains their mission.

3. Serve with joy and courage

Leo XIV encouraged the newly ordained to exercise a ministry characterized by dedication and closeness to the people of God. “Be shepherds who smell of sheep,” he exhorted them, using an expression that has become emblematic. He urged them not to fear fatigue, difficulties or hostile environments, but to respond with humility, creativity and hope.

4. Brotherhood among priests, a sign of communion

The Pope also emphasized the importance of priestly fraternity as a witness to the Gospel. “You are not alone,” he assured. He noted that living together as brothers strengthens the priestly identity and reflects the Trinitarian communion to which they are called.

5. Courageous proclaimers of hope

In conclusion, Leo XIV urged them to proclaim the Gospel without fear and with joy, especially among young people. “The world needs witnesses, not officials,” he emphasized. He asked them to be creative in the Spirit, bold in their mission, and merciful in their pastoral care.

In short, Leo XIV wanted to leave them a simple but demanding message: to love God deeply, to pray every day, to serve with joy, to live as brothers and sisters and to announce hope without fear. Thus, he said, the priesthood will not only be fruitful, but also a source of renewal for the whole Church.