Benedict XVI: The role of priests is irreplaceable

Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese,
18 Sep 2009

It is important to notice the essential difference between priestly ministry and the "common priesthood" of the laity, so as to avoid the secularization of clergy and the "clericalization" of the laity. Benedict XVI underlined this in his speech to the Brazilian bishops of the Northeast 2 region, who were received in audience at the end of their Ad Limina visit.

According the distinctions of the social doctrine of the Church, the priest must be a point of reference for the community and the guarantor of its unity, whereas the laity must commit themselves in the social and political areas.

In particular, the shortage of priests that characterizes the Brazilian Church must lead to the strengthening of the laity’s responsibility and of the clergy’s role within the community.

Benedict XVI concluded his speech exhorting the bishops to combine efforts to encourage new priestly vocations.