The priest must not be under the influence of others

• Main idea: His Holiness Pope Shenouda III discusses essential spiritual qualities of the priest, most notably that he should not be under the influence of others and should maintain his spiritual independence in guidance and confession, and that he should care for his solitude, the organization of his time, and his service to the poor.

Spiritual core and practical instructions

• The penitent must not feel that his priest receives his directions from his family or other human sources; rather his guidance should come from the Holy Spirit.
• Silence from the priest does not necessarily mean agreement; it may be a rebuke, preservation of secrets, or because it is inappropriate to answer the question before people.
• The required solitude for the priest is not merely a symbolic period after ordination but a regular practice (a day a week or longer periods) of withdrawing with God to examine the self and renew the spirit.
• Time organization is important: appointments for ministry, prayers, reading, and meetings to avoid constant busyness and losing one’s vocation.
• Ministry is practical and includes caring for the poor and needy: do not generalize accusations, investigate the cases of fraudsters for their reasons and provide continuous treatment rather than temporary help.
• It encourages building files and continuous follow-up for needy cases, and using the talents and capabilities of the community (doctors, lawyers, businessmen, social specialists) to provide lasting solutions.
• There is special concern for the discreet poor and issues of housing, unemployment, illness, and marriage, because neglecting these services may lead to spiritual downfall or religious change for some of the needy.
• Prison ministry has two aspects: visiting the prisoner himself and solving his problems, and serving his family who need care during his absence.

Conclusion

• The priesthood requires spiritual independence, regular solitude, and practical organization in ministry, with special care for the poor as part of spiritual responsibility and resurrection.

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الاستقلال Solitude