” “In fact, went on the Pope, the "objective" authority of the bishop "must be upheld by the authoritativeness of his life". In particular, "relationship serenity, refined characteristics and a simple lifestyle are qualities that ennoble the human personality of the bishop with no doubts". Among the virtues that are necessary to "govern souls", Benedict XVI recalled "cautiousness”. “You must be patient with yourselves and with the others; you must be brave, fair and merciful. And your decisions must be firm". "The total dedication of your selves, commanded by the care for the herd and for the Lord, – added the Pope, – needs the support of an intensely spiritual life, fostered by the constant personal and community prayer". As a matter of fact, living "in intimate union with Christ will help you reaching the necessary balance between inner meditation and the effort that is required by the numerous engagements of life. Thus, you will avoid lapsing into exaggerated activism". Moreover, Benedict asked the new bishops to remain "faithful" to the engagement of "praying" for the people of God, assigned to them, relentlessly. Bishops were also asked to aspire after "holiness" relentlessly, for holiness is the "fundamental goal in the existence of any Christian". ” “
