The Priest and His Spiritual Life ________________________________________

The General Message of the Lecture

This lecture explains that priesthood and pastoral care are not merely a job or a title, but a divine work carried out by God Himself through a person who is filled with the Holy Spirit and who has been called and chosen for this holy service.

Summary

1. God Is the True Shepherd
   His Holiness Pope Shenouda III affirms that the title “Shepherd” is originally a divine title, because God Himself shepherds His people, and Christ is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
2. Pastoral Care Is Not a Job but a Spiritual Work
   Pastoral care is not limited to a position or an ecclesiastical role, but is a spiritual service that requires the filling of the Holy Spirit, because the Spirit is the One who works in the shepherd and shepherds the people.
3. Being Filled with the Holy Spirit Is Essential
   The Holy Spirit is the source of power in priesthood, as clearly shown in the lives of the apostles, who did not begin their ministry until the Holy Spirit descended upon them, despite their long training with Christ.
4. Divine Calling Precedes Ministry
   A person does not call himself to priesthood, but God is the One who calls, chooses, and appoints the work, as seen in the calling of Paul and Barnabas, and as clearly testified in the Holy Scripture.
5. God Works in the Shepherd and Through Him
   When the calling is from God, God Himself works in the shepherd, works through him, and works with him, transforming pastoral care into a successful divine work rather than a human effort.
6. The Spirit-Filled Shepherd Is a Spiritual Example
   A shepherd filled with the Holy Spirit becomes spiritual in his words, service, and conduct, and leads others by the Spirit rather than by human will.
7. Spiritual Wisdom Is Necessary for Pastoral Care
   Being filled with the Holy Spirit must be accompanied by wisdom, because heavenly spiritual wisdom is essential for managing the Church and guiding souls, and it differs from worldly intelligence or cunning.
   8. The Success of Ministry Depends on God’s Work
      Ministry succeeds when God is the One working in it, and all glory remains for God alone, not for man, as witnessed in the lives and service of the apostles and saints.

    

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