Pope tells new priests: Keep Church door open - don't be an obstacle to seekers

Image: Vatican Media

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Leo XIV ordained ten priests during Mass in St Peter's Basilica on Sunday morning as the Church celebrated the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Basing his homily on the Gospel of John, in which Jesus said: "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly," Pope Leo pointed to the generosity of the newly-ordained priests as a sign that this promise is still being lived today.

The Pope described priesthood as a "ministry of communion." He stressed that a close relationship with Christ does not distance priests from others, but deepens their connection to all people. "The deeper your bond with Christ, the more radical your belonging to humanity," he said.

He also reflected on celibacy, comparing it to the love within marriage, which is something that requires care, renewal, and commitment over time. This form of love, he added, should lead priests to become not only good ministers, but also responsible and constructive members of society.

Referring to the Gospel's mention of thieves and robbers, the Pope acknowledged the presence of violence and instability in the world. However, he stressed that Jesus does not withdraw in the face of danger, and neither should priests. "Reality must not frighten us," he said, calling this a key aspect of priestly life.

He warned that today's search for security can lead to fear, division, and hostility. Instead, he encouraged the new priests to find their stability in Christ, rather than in their role or status.

The Pope went on to highlight that the communities to which priests are sent are not empty or passive, but already marked by the presence of the Risen Christ. "These communities will also help you to become saints," he said.

He encouraged the ordinands to foster unity, helping people come together and creating spaces where individuals can experience the value of community life.

A central theme of the homily was Jesus' image of Himself as the "gate." The Pope recalled its historical reference in Jerusalem and linked it to Baptism and entry into the life of the Church.

He warned against placing obstacles in the way of those who seek to approach the faith. "Do not block this gate," he said, urging priests to ensure that the Church remains accessible.

The Pope then insisted that priests should not act as gatekeepers who restrict access, but as "channels, not filters."

In a context where many people feel distant from the Church, he encouraged them to keep doors open and to be ready both to welcome and to go out. "You belong to everyone and are for everyone," he said.

He also emphasized that the Church should not confine people, but help them engage more fully with life. Quoting the Gospel, he noted that those who are saved "enter, go out, and find pasture."

Bringing his homily to a close, the Pope encouraged the new priests to engage with the wider world, including culture and everyday life. He acknowledged that they may at times feel uncertain, but reminded them that the Good Shepherd guides the way.

Pope Leo concluded by pointing to the witness of trust in God, recalling the words of Psalm 23, and encouraging the new priests to carry that confidence into their ministry.

Read the prepared text of Pope Leo's homily: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/it/bollettino/pubblico/2026/04/26/0344/00181.html