Pope Francis urges Pontifical Romanian College to remain rooted in faith and tradition for fruitful ministry

Pope Francis addressed the Pontifical Romanian College “Pio Romeno” on the occasion of its eighty-fifth anniversary, emphasizing the importance of staying rooted in one’s heritage. The Pope encouraged seminarians from Romania to rediscover their cultural and religious traditions through study and meditation while in Rome. This call to rediscovery was framed within the broader context of the Church’s mission and the need to remain faithful to its origins.

The Pope reflected on the history of the Romanian Greek Catholic Church during World War II, when it faced significant challenges. At that time, many bishops were killed or imprisoned, leaving the Church without active leadership. Despite these hardships, priests offered their lives as testimony to their faith, enduring suffering with courage. This historical context underscored the Pope’s message about the necessity of maintaining spiritual vitality through a deep connection to one’s roots.

He warned against a dangerous process that can occur when religious traditions lose sight of their origins. As time passes, the Pope noted, there is a tendency to focus more on personal or institutional interests, losing the dynamism of one’s heritage. This, he said, can lead to a life of mediocrity, driven by careerism and self-interest rather than genuine service to others.

The Pope described this spiritual complacency as being tainted by the “virus of spiritual worldliness.” He warned that such a mindset leads to a life that is self-referential and devoid of true fruitfulness. In contrast, he urged the students to embrace a life of humility and service, rooted in the faith passed down through generations.

Being in Rome, the Pope said, provides an opportunity to bring one’s roots “up to date,” ensuring that their ministry remains fruitful. He encouraged them to be joyful apostles of the faith, willing to share it with others and to reconcile with all, overcoming animosity and victimhood. This call to action was framed as a way to ensure that their ministry is both effective and meaningful.

The Pope reminded the students that the “good soil” of faith is cultivated by their families and the holy people of God. This soil, he said, is also found in the lives of the poor, the sick, and the suffering, where Christ is present. He highlighted the importance of engaging with these communities, emphasizing that true faith is lived out in service to others.

In particular, the Pope mentioned the many refugees from Ukraine who are being welcomed and assisted by Romania. This example illustrates the Church’s call to care for the vulnerable and to live out the Gospel in tangible ways. He urged the students to be “priests from the people,” with a deep connection to the communities they serve.

The Pope concluded by encouraging the students to carry forward the legacy of their faith, rooted in the traditions of their ancestors and the teachings of the Church. This call to remain faithful to one’s roots was framed as a way to ensure that the Church continues to bear fruit in the world.

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