Acta Apostolicae Sedis - Commentarium Officiale218

Particular attention should also be given to Eucharistic adoration, and in

every diocese there should be churches or chapels specifically devoted to this

purpose. I ask parishes, seminaries, religious houses and monasteries to or-

ganize periods of Eucharistic adoration, so that all have an opportunity to

take part. Through intense prayer before the real presence of the Lord, you

can make reparation for the sins of abuse that have done so much harm, at

the same time imploring the grace of renewed strength and a deeper sense of

mission on the part of all bishops, priests, religious and lay faithful.

I am confident that this programme will lead to a rebirth of the Church in

Ireland in the fullness of God's own truth, for it is the truth that sets us free.7

Furthermore, having consulted and prayed about the matter, I intend to

hold an Apostolic Visitation of certain dioceses in Ireland, as well as semin-

aries and religious congregations. Arrangements for the Visitation, which is

intended to assist the local Church on her path of renewal, will be made in

cooperation with the competent offices of the Roman Curia and the Irish

Episcopal Conference. The details will be announced in due course.

I also propose that a nationwide Mission be held for all bishops, priests

and religious. It is my hope that, by drawing on the expertise of experienced

preachers and retreat-givers from Ireland and from elsewhere, and by explor-

ing anew the conciliar documents, the liturgical rites of ordination and pro-

fession, and recent pontifical teaching, you will come to a more profound

appreciation of your respective vocations, so as to rediscover the roots of

your faith in Jesus Christ and to drink deeply from the springs of living water

that he offers you through his Church.

In this Year for Priests, I commend to you most particularly the figure of

Saint John Mary Vianney, who had such a rich understanding of the mystery

of the priesthood. "The priest", he wrote, "holds the key to the treasures of

heaven: it is he who opens the door: he is the steward of the good Lord; the

administrator of his goods." The Curé d'Ars understood well how greatly

blessed a community is when served by a good and holy priest: "A good

shepherd, a pastor after God's heart, is the greatest treasure which the good

Lord can grant to a parish, and one of the most precious gifts of divine

mercy." Through the intercession of Saint John Mary Vianney, may the

priesthood in Ireland be revitalized, and may the whole Church in Ireland

grow in appreciation for the great gift of the priestly ministry.

7 Cf. Jn 8:32.