Seeing with the Heart

Learning what it means to be a priest

You hardly ever see him without a joyful smile: Professor Cristian Mendoza has been prefect of studies at the “Sedes Sapientiae” seminary in Rome for two years and loves his priestly vocation. That is why it matters to him not only to impart knowledge in theology and Catholic social teaching to the students at the Santa Croce University in Rome, but also to awaken in the future priests a lasting joy in their vocation. They need to learn “what it means to be a priest,” says Mendoza. For him, three major themes are fundamental: the capacity for relationship, empathy, and readiness to serve.

The seminary is an important breeding ground for this. Here, young men from many different countries study together, so that they cannot avoid getting to know one another, accepting one another, and being there for one another. This only works with honesty, he says. The protected space of the seminary creates an atmosphere in which the young men can “open their hearts and are allowed to say what they think and need,” Mendoza explains. Topics such as falling in love, sexuality, as well as doubts and inner struggles also find their place there. To live deep relationships, one must be able to tell the truth while also being capable of perceiving and understanding the needs and inclinations of the other with the heart.

Living in a vibrant relationship with Christ

“Personal encounter is fundamentally important,” Mendoza explains. For a priest also administers “the sacraments personally.” Only once the seminarians have matured in their ability to build empathetic, understanding, and supportive friendships can they later also meet the faithful with an open heart. The same applies to the encounter with the Lord: “Only when a priest lives in a vibrant relationship with Christ can he make that relationship tangible for others.”

It is fundamentally important to Cristian Mendoza that future priests be equipped to live authentic relationships. Thus, the young men learn from female lecturers to also adopt a female perspective—for example, learning that women in conversations often do not expect solutions to problems, but rather seek an open ear for their concerns.

Durch Vorbild lehren: Der Studienpräfekt will die Freude am Priestertum vermitteln.

Teaching by example: the prefect of studies wants to pass on the joy of the priesthood.

A religious sister once shared how valuable it was for her when a priest handled the Eucharist with reverence and gentleness—qualities Mendoza considers just as important as the knowledge “that one’s own life as a priest is a service to others.” As prefect of studies, Mendoza accompanies the seminarians in developing a sure sense for deep and good bonds in all the contexts in which they will stand as priests throughout their lives—in their personal environment, in the parish, but also among fellow priests.

We ask you from the heart:

Support Professor Mendoza and his work with your prayers, so that many more priests can develop their vocation with emotional competence and a focus on relationships, and support him with your generous donation!