VATICAN - World Day of Prayer for Vocations: Message from Benedict XVI: the “missionary dimension is associated in a special and intimate way with the priestly vocation.”

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - “Vocations at the service of the Church on mission” is the theme that was chosen by the Holy Father Benedict XVI for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations that will be celebrated on April 13, 2008, Fourth Sunday of Easter, also known as “Good Shepherd Sunday.” In his Message on the occasion, the Pope recalled the fact that “The Church is missionary in herself and in each one of her members. Through the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, every Christian is called to bear witness and to announce the Gospel, but this missionary dimension is associated in a special and intimate way with the priestly vocation.”
The Holy Father continues, saying: “Among those totally dedicated to the service of the Gospel, are priests, called to preach the word of God, administer the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, committed to helping the lowly, the sick, the suffering, the poor, and those who experience hardship in areas of the world where there are, at times, many who still have not had a real encounter with Jesus Christ. Missionaries announce for the first time to these people Christ’s redemptive love.”
In his Message, the Pope notes that vocations to the ministerial priesthood and to the consecrated life only flourish “in a spiritual soil that is well cultivated,” and he adds, “The Church prays everyday to the Holy Spirit for the gift of vocations. Gathered around the Virgin Mary, Queen of the Apostles, as in the beginning, the ecclesial community learns from her how to implore the Lord for a flowering of new apostles, alive with the faith and love that are necessary for the mission.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 11/4/2008; righe 20, parole 278)