Mgr Matthieu ROUGE, Bishop of Nanterre, regularly brings together the young priests of the diocese to share convivial and fraternal moments. These gatherings, which take place in a variety of locations, provide an opportunity for enriching exchanges on spiritual and pastoral themes, strengthening the bonds between members of the ecclesial community.
Father Guillaume, one of the young priests of our community of Oblates of the Virgin Mary, has been taking part in these meetings, which include not only diocesan priests but also religious, since his ordination to the priesthood. He derives great joy and invaluable support in his mission, feeling an integral part of a wider, united and dynamic community.
The Second Vatican Council’s reference to the importance of communion and encounters between members of the Church is found in the Dogmatic Constitution “Lumen Gentium”. Here’s an extract:
“The Church, in fact, is the people of God, the assembly of believers, who come together to celebrate divine worship, to listen to the word of God and to live in fraternity.” (Lumen Gentium, no. 9)
This quote underlines the importance of community and fraternal encounters in the life of the Church, which resonates well with the spirit of meetings between priests and the bishop.
If you’re looking for something more specific to the formation and communion of priests, you might also consider this passage from the Declaration “Presbyterorum Ordinis”:
“Priests, in fact, must strive to live in a communion of life and charity, whether among themselves, with their bishops, or with the people of God.” (Presbyterorum Ordinis, no. 8)
This highlights the importance of fraternity and mutual support between priests, which is at the heart of the meetings you mention.
