Pope Leo XIV Ordains Eleven New Priests in St. Peter's Basilica

Pope Leo XIV presided over a solemn Mass at St. Peter's Basilica on Saturday, during which he ordained eleven new priests from the Diocese of Rome. This event marks a significant return to the tradition of papal ordinations, which had been conducted by Cardinal Angelo De Donatis for the past three years. The newly ordained priests will serve within the Roman Diocese, under the papacy of Pope Leo.

During his homily, the Pope emphasized the importance of transparency in the lives of the priests, urging them to work towards restoring the credibility of a Church that serves a wounded humanity and a suffering creation. He acknowledged the imperfections of the clergy but stressed the necessity of credibility in their ministry.

Pope Leo called upon the newly ordained priests to create space for the faithful and all of creation, highlighting that the community of God's people is more expansive than what is often recognized. He encouraged them not to impose limitations on this divine community, advocating for inclusivity and openness in their pastoral duties.

The ordination ceremony, steeped in tradition and spiritual significance, reflects the ongoing mission of the Catholic Church to adapt and respond to the needs of its followers in a complex world. As the new priests begin their journey in the service of the Church, they carry with them the hopes and expectations of their communities, tasked with the vital role of shepherding their flocks in faith.