The text affirms that the priest’s role must be educational, theological and spiritual at the same time. The priest is entrusted to provide his people with deep theological knowledge and spiritual nourishment that does not suffice with superficial sermons.

Theological and doctrinal dimension

The priest must have strong knowledge by which he can answer the doubts spread by sects and new trends (Jehovah’s Witnesses, Protestant denominations, Biblical criticism, philosophical and scientific currents). Teaching must be clear and comprehensive and not leave explanations of issues incomplete.

Cultural and educational dimension

Church educational curricula need to be elevated, especially for youth exposed to multiple media (radio, television, internet). Strong theological curricula should be included in church education schools, and priests and catechists should be prepared with refresher courses and advanced courses.

Contemporary challenges

The contemporary world carries new currents: some churches accept practices considered abnormal, internal debates about Biblical texts, and the spread of new ideas like New Age or conflicting scientific theories. This requires scholarly and linguistic preparation for priests.

Pastoral care and spiritual guidance

Pastoral care is not merely liturgical attendance but needs theological thought to answer believers’ questions and rescue them from doubts and mistaken ideas. Confession and personal instruction must be accompanied by clear doctrinal understanding.

Contemporary tools

The internet and digital media constitute a challenge and an opportunity: harmful information can reach quickly, and at the same time pastoral and educational materials can be published that nourish the people’s thought. Digital libraries and CDs and similar resources are important and should be utilized.

Ecumenical and institutional stance

Discussions in international councils must be met with study and teaching, not with voting as a measure of doctrine. Doctrinal matters are not resolved by majority votes but by in-depth study and teaching.

Brief practical recommendations

• Prepare advanced theological educational curricula.

• Provide refresher (refresh) courses and advanced courses for priests.

• Qualify the clergy to respond scientifically and methodically to heresies and innovations.

• Invest in the internet to publish correct pastoral teaching while monitoring its content.

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