"Two are the tasks that define the essence of priesthood", as written in Deuteronomy and taken up by Canon II of the Missal: "astare coram te et tibi ministrare" (stand in front of you and serve you). It was said this morning by Benedict XVI, in his homily for Chrismal Mass, in the Vatican basilica. First and foremost, then, "standing in front of the Lord", which means placing "Eucharist at the core of priestly life". "The priest explained the Pope must be one who keeps watch. He must keep watch against the pressing powers of evil. He must keep the world awake for God. He must be one who stands: straight in front of the currents of time. Straight in truth. Straight in his commitment to the good. Standing in front of the Lord must always mean, deep in one’s heart, taking care of the men with the Lord, who in His turn takes care of us all with the Father. And it must mean taking care of Him, Christ, of His Word, of His truth, of His love. Straight must be the priest, fearless and willing even to swallow insults for the Lord". Then, the priest "must be a straight, vigilant one, one who stands straight. "Then, serving must be added" to all this. (continued)
