Father Landry on on Pope Francis and Priestly Renewal

“. . . even though the cardinals seem to have elected Pope Francis to address much-discussed issues within the Vatican Curia, he, like his papal patron saint, may be God’s instrument to bring something much larger back into shape.

“One of the most urgent reforms facing him is the restoration of the moral credibility of the hierarchy, and especially of the priesthood. The scandals of clerical sex abuse and tales of Vatican corruption have not only severely undermined the Church’s moral authority, but given the impression that living by the Church’s teachings forms freaks and moral monsters rather than saints.

“In his first couple of weeks as Pope, as well as his 14 years in Buenos Aires, Francis has been charting out the trajectory of priestly reshaping.”

In a recent National Catholic Register commentary, Father Roger Landry (pastor of Saint Bernadette Parish, Fall River, MA), reflected on Pope Francis and priestly renewal.

To access Fr. Landry’s complete essay, please visit:

National Catholic Register: Pope Francis and the Reform of the Priesthood (28 MAR 13)