Teaching and Learning the Love of God: Being a Priest Today

This compilation of sermons delivered by Joseph Ratzinger (Benedict XVI) over six decades provides profound theological and historical insights into the significance of the life and witness of a Catholic clergyman. In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI initiated the Year for Priests to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the death of John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests. The goal of this book of sermons is to strengthen the commitment of all priests to personal renewal in order to better proclaim the Gospel in today's world. As St. John Vianney once said, "The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus." This poignant statement invites us to appreciate the immense value of priests, not just for the Church but for all of humanity. In the present age, priests are needed to be exemplary witnesses to Christ. These sermons aim to enlighten and motivate priests to reaffirm their dedication to "teaching and learning the love of God."