The Pontiff also underscored the role of the bishop as pastor. Like the shepherd appointed by Christ to care for Christ’s flock, bishops–Francis noted–are to serve Christ by serving and building up His people.
“Jesus is the supreme Pastor of the Church,” the Holy Father stated. “It is in His name and by His mandate that we are to take care to keep his flock, fully ready to give everything, even our lives.”
The Holy Father went on to urge the bishops to form and maintain strong relationships with their priests, caring for their spiritual and material needs.
The Pope also lauded the role the Church plays in the larger society of Mozambique, especially in the fields of education and health care.
Pope Francis concluded, recalling the missionary vocation of all the baptized and the bishops’ role as both guardians and nurturers of the missionary spirit. “When we go out to take the Gospel with true apostolic spirit, He walks with us,” the Pope said, noting, “He precedes us, and for us this is fundamental: God always goes before us.” (D.C.L.)
