Pope Francis received trainers and seminarians accompanied by the bishops of the dioceses of the Ecclesiastical Province of Valencia. During the meeting, the Pope expressed his sorrow for the victims of the flood and reminded that being a priest means being like Christ, being present in the suffering of the people and sharing pieces of oneself with those who need it most.
In an emotional speech, the Holy Father highlighted the importance of solidarity in moments of crisis like that caused by the flood. He emphasized the selfless dedication of many people in the affected areas and encouraged the seminarians and priests present to follow that example of generosity and selflessness in their pastoral work.
Francis mentioned the beginning of the Holy Year 2025 with the motto "Pilgrims of Hope" and underlined the difference between optimism and hope, emphasizing that hope goes much further. He urged reflection on these words and to live hope in a deep and meaningful way.
The Pope reminded the importance of being present in the pain of others, sharing their suffering, and being light in the midst of darkness. He encouraged those present to be like Jesus, to become "clay" in the tears of the people, and to distribute pieces of themselves, following the example of Christ in the Eucharist.
The flood was mentioned as a reminder of human fragility and the need for mutual support in times of loss and despair. The Pope recognized the magnitude of the suffering experienced in the affected areas, highlighting the importance of solidarity and selflessness in the pastoral work of priests and seminarians.
