Tagle reminds newly-ordained priests: Have concern for others, console those who are suffering, reconcile with the Lord

Manila Archbishop Antonio Luis G. Tagle announces the visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines on January 15-19 next year during a press conference on Tuesday (July 29, 2014) in Intramuros, Manila. Also in photo (from left) are Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara; Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto; and Presidential Communication and Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma. (PNA photo by Avito C.Dalan)

MANILA — Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle has reminded newly-ordained priests of three things — concern for others instead of one’s selfish gain, consolation to those who are suffering, and reconciliation with the Lord.

The head of the Archdiocese of Manila gave the message during the ordination Mass which he officiated recently at the Manila Cathedral.

Likewise, he reminded the new members of the clergy of the Manila Archdiocese about their role as shepherds to have deep concern for others.

“Before a shepherd becomes distinguished by his achievements, by the many buildings that he was able to construct, by the many projects that he has successfully completed, in the end, as far as Jesus is concerned, the heart of the shepherd is the heart that is full of concern for the others,” he said in an article posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) news website.

Tagle cautioned the young priests not to fall prey to the allure of wealth, noting that their focus should not be about money.

“According to Jesus, there are shepherds who have no concern for the sheep. Why? Because they work for pay. They really do not care about (others). All they think of is the amount they will get from something,” he explained.

Tagle added, “You are not called to be paid.

You are called to be concerned for the others.

With or without any remuneration, be happy that you have been called to serve others. That is the path to following Jesus.”

The Cardinal noted that monetary gain should not be the priests’ priority.

“Concern cannot be monetized. Love cannot be quantified. That should be the least of your concerns. The Lord is my Shepherd, there is nothing I shall want. You will lack for nothing if Jesus is your shepherd,” he added.