At this time, when the Holy Father has graciously named me as the new Prefect, I would like to take the opportunity to convey a cordial greeting to each and every one of you.
The Year for Priests, recently brought to a conclusion, remains always before us, both in its content and in its model of sanctity, St John Mary Vianney. With regard to its content, it is to be fully assimilated into the environment of the formation of the Clergy, both in the initial and ongoing stages, especially concerning to the central place it wished to recognise of the Eucharist, celebrated and adored; with regard to the model of sanctity that was offered, the heroic participation of the Curé of Ars in the self-giving of Christ for the life of men shines forth, and that witness spurs us continually to offer ourselves to the Lord in the “fragrant sacrifice”.
Even in the face of the storm of the “worldly sea,” Jesus of Nazareth repeats to his disciples, “Do not be afraid!” To the temptation of activism and of the fitful searching after solutions that are human, and all too human, He beckons us gently, “Remain in my love” (Jn 15: 9).