Toledo, Spain, Apr 12, 2006 / 12:00 am (CNA).-
The
archbishop of Toledo, Spain, Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera called
on priests this week to come to the defense of their flocks against the
imposition of an increasingly secular culture.
During the
celebration of the annual Chrism Mass, the cardinal said everyone was
aware of the ongoing attempts to change society and culture.
Secularism, the breakdown of values, the eradication of the Christian
roots of society, dissent in the Church all require that “we priests
place ourselves in front of the flock as good shepherds and defend,
even to the point of sacrificing our own persons,” those “that have
been entrusted to us.”
Priests should
provide the faithful with the spiritual nourishment they need and lead
them to “the fountains of living water,” especially “young people, who
are most in need at this time.”
“Preaching right
doctrine in season and out of season is key at this moment, as well as
strengthening the unbreakable ecclesial communion with the Pope and
defending the family,” he said.
Therefore, the
cardinal encouraged priests to strongly promote participation in the
World Meeting of Families with Pope Benedict XVI, due to be held in
Valencia.
