The Catholic Files – Season 3, Episode 17 Pope Saint John Paul II: Pastores Dabo Vobis – The Formation of Priests

Join Fr. Sean Donnelly for another episode of The Catholic Files as our journey through the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II continues with one of his most influential documents on the priesthood: Pastores Dabo Vobis (I Will Give You Shepherds).

Drawing its title from the prophet Jeremiah—"I will give you shepherds after my own heart" (Jeremiah 3:15)—this Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation reflects on the essential role of priests in the life of the Church and the importance of forming holy, faithful, and courageous shepherds for the People of God.

In this episode, Fr. Donnelly explores: Christ as the Good Shepherd and the model for every priest. Why the Church depends upon faithful priests to proclaim the Gospel and celebrate the Sacraments. The spiritual, human, intellectual, and pastoral formation necessary for priestly ministry. Pope Saint John Paul II's message of hope amid the challenges of declining vocations. How every Catholic is called to pray for and support future priests.

Whether you are discerning a vocation, supporting seminarians, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the priesthood, this episode offers timeless wisdom from one of the Church's greatest modern saints.

Listen as Fr. Donnelly unpacks the enduring relevance of Pastores Dabo Vobis and reminds us that Christ continues to fulfill His promise: "I will give you shepherds after my own heart."

Click the link to read the document. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_25031992_pastores-dabo-vobis.html

For more information of the Catholic Files, visit https://www.iccmadison.com/season3