VATICAN - “The Bishop should meditate on the Word everyday in prayer, in order to become its efficient promoter in proclaiming it, authentic doctor in living and defending it, and enlightened and wise teacher in communicating it,” the pope tells the Bishops participating in the Course organized by the Congregation for Bishops and the Congregation for Eastern Churches

Castel Gandolfo (Agenzia Fides) – “The first spiritual and apostolic commitment of the Bishop should be that of progressing on the way of evangelical perfection. Among the means he has to help him in making progress in the spiritual life, first and foremost is the Word of God, which should play an indisputable role as the center of the life and mission of the Bishop. I exhort you, therefore, dear Bishops, to trust each day in the word of God, so as to be teachers of the faith and authentic educators of your faithful.” These were the Holy Father Benedict XVI’s words in addressing the recently appointed Bishops who were received in an audience in Castel Gandolfo on September 22, following their completion of a course promoted by the Congregation for Bishops and the Congregation for Eastern Churches.
The Pope explained that “in order to respond to the great challenge of secularism characteristic of modern society,” the Bishop should meditate on the Word everyday in prayer, in order to become its efficient promoter in proclaiming it, authentic doctor in living and defending it, and enlightened and wise teacher in communicating it.”
At the beginning of his address, Pope Benedict XVI mentioned two important events in the Church: the Year of Saint Paul and the 12th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on the Word of God, which will begin on October 5, as both can help shed light on several aspects of the spirituality and mission of a Bishop. The Pope pointed out that from Saint Paul, “a model and teacher for Bishops,” we can learn “above all, a great love for Jesus Christ...the love of Paul for Christ amazes us because of its intensity...the example of the great Apostle calls us, as Bishops, to grow each day in holiness of life so as to have the same sentiments as Christ.”
The Pope continued, saying: “For the bishop, the road of perfection must take its inspiration from the characteristic traits of the Good Shepherd, that on his face and in his actions the faithful might learn the human and Christian virtues that must distinguish the bishop. Progressing along the path of holiness, may you express that indispensable authority and prudent wisdom expected of one placed at the head of God's family. This authority is ever more necessary today. Your ministry will only be pastorally fruitful if it relies upon your holiness of life.”
In concluding his address, the Pope mentioned that the Bishops should never cease to dedicate their lives to “their flock’s progress on the way of holiness and truth.” The Holy Father especially asked the Bishops to care for the priests and the youth: “Take special care of the priests in all their needs. Spare no effort in placing in action all the initiatives...Try to promote a true fraternal spirit among the priests, which can help overcome isolation and solitude, encouraging close support. It is important that all priests sense the paternal closeness and friendship of the Bishop...Encourage and guide the youth...there are many young people who are enthusiastic about the Gospel and willing to commit their lives in the Church. There is a need for priests and educators to know how to transmit to the future generations an enthusiasm for the gift of life, love for Jesus Christ and for the Church...Do not cease to propose to the youth the decision to give themselves entirely to Christ in the priesthood or religious life. Spread awareness among families, parishes, educational institutions, so that they may help the future generations to seek and find God’s plan in their life.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 23/9/2008)