Tożsamość i misja kapłańska w świetle homilii Benedykta XVI wygłoszonych w Wielki Czwartek podczas Mszy Krzyżma

Abstract

The article above is dedicated to the image of the priest as presented in Pope Benedict XVI homilies delivered by him on Good Thursday during the Chrism Mass. Unlike his predecessor John Paul II Pope Benedict XVI usually did not write letters to priests on Good Thursday, which is the reason why this homily this should be considered to be the speech of the Vicar of Christ adressed to all priests. The article is divided into two major parts. The former refers to the identity, whereas the latter focuses on the mission, which is in line with the principle that our actions are the result of who we are. The first part addresses two significant issues, which are: special belonging to God and conforming to Christ’s image. The second part, on the other hand, tackles such issues as acting in persona Christi and representing people before God. Topics tackled, style, issues addressed, and langauge attest the author’s greatness and wisedom, and should be spread among people, since they provide a valuable lesson on the priest’s identity and mission, especially for the priests.