Vatican City, Oct 5, 2005 / 22:00 pm
Some prelates expressed grave concern over a lack of priests in their various parts of the world, resulting in a separation from the Eucharist.
Bishop Arnold Orowae, Coadjutor of Wabag, Papua New Guinea, particularly stressed this point saying that "Experiences of injustice, violence, corruption, poverty, etc., show that there is a separation between the Eucharist and life. Thus the real saving and transforming presence of Jesus in the Eucharist should not be understood vaguely and taken lightly but Catholics should be serious in their faith, with due respect and adoration."
"How", he asked however, "can this be true for communities who live in the remote villages that do not have the opportunity for frequent celebration and reception of the Eucharist?"
“This poses the question, what kind of priest do we need in our situation? Does one need years of intellectual formation in philosophy and theology to give needed service to the poor people in the remote areas who may not equal his intellectual capabilities?” he asked.