Today at the Chrism Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, where we renewed our priestly promises, two key points are worth our reflection.
The first point comes from Saint Paul’s reminder that we are “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor 4:1).
This is not merely a duty, but a profound trust. We do not preach personal theories, but the faith of the Church, rooted in God’s revelation. If our hearts are truly touched by the Word of God, then our preaching will carry power—because we are not proclaiming ourselves, but Christ.
The second point is an expression that may seem outdated, yet remains essential: “zeal for souls” (animarum zelus).
As Christians—and especially as Salesian priests—we do not belong to ourselves, but entirely to God and His people. We care for the whole person—not only their physical needs, but also the deepest longings of their souls. People should feel from our lives and actions this fire, this passion, the love and truth of Christ.
May the Lord always fill us with this holy zeal, that we may joyfully fulfill His will, serve others with gladness, and be living witnesses of His hope.