In this lecture, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III addresses the priest’s dealings with people and warns of the danger of pride that sometimes arises after receiving the priestly rank. He affirms that the priesthood should increase humility and meekness, not be a cause of arrogance or exploitation of authority.

Clergy ethics and the heart’s behavior
The Pope emphasizes that the priest should possess meekness of heart and humility of self, and must not exploit his authority to impose orders or hurt the feelings of the faithful. Humility appears in tone, in patience, and in accepting dialogue and people’s criticism without despotism.

Authority and the danger of its exploitation
He warns that the authority given to the priest is not a permission for random behavior or for personal reasons, and that administrative and spiritual decisions must be made calmly and after fair investigation. Persuasion and convincing are better than commanding, which stirs rebellion in hearts.

Endurance and forbearance
He affirms that the priest should be an example in bearing and carrying others’ burdens, not a cause of their fatigue. He should be a man who convinces people with love, accepts calm debate, and does not hasten to cutting off or punishment.

Confession and spiritual reverence
He discusses the role of the confessor father: guidance is not compulsion. The priest should invite and teach while leaving the penitent free; he must not force the penitent into a position or rite that disturbs him. Repentance is received with love, not with threat.

Christian example and service
He cites Christ’s humility (washing the feet) as a principle: the priesthood is a call to service and humility, not to raise oneself above others. He prefers the priest to be a brother and a son among his people, not a ruler over them.

Summary and Coptic Orthodox spirituality
The core spiritual message is that the priesthood is a call to humility, mercy, and serving people in the spirit of the Gospel. From the Coptic Orthodox faith perspective, humility and meekness are fruits of the Holy Spirit and must appear in all the priest’s daily dealings.

For better translation support, please contact the center.