What struck me about the Holy Father during Vespers in St Peter’s on the feast of the Sacred Heart, 19 June, was his composure. Yes, he has had a good deal of experience leading mega-liturgies now, but he had a notable self-possession and humility about him as he initiated the Year of the Priest. He came across as a priest among priests, as he tried to reach out to every priest. The pope is very much aware of the terrible abuse committed by some. For example, two Irish cardinals met with him earlier this month about the release of the government report and the pope called for deep soul-searching. He is also aware of so many priests who generously serve their people and encounter misunderstanding and discouragement.

Is that the reason why St John Baptist Vianney featured so prominently? As well as being patron of parish priests, John Vianney witnessed to the faith in 19th century France when many turned against the Church. By his personal life of prayer and service to his remote parish community he helped many thousands embrace their lapsed faith. That this year for priests was commenced on the feast of the Sacred Heart tells us about the importance of mercy, which was a central theme of John Vianney’s ministry. We too are called to receive and share that mercy which is beyond our efforts.

Earlier on the same day I had attended the ordination to the diaconate of eight men, including one from Armidale and one from Broome. At the Basilica of St Paul’s Outside the Walls, Bishop Chris Saunders of Broome spoke in his homily about the fragility of the Church which relies on God’s grace and human effort. He likened the Church to his leaky dinghy which stays afloat because of pop-rivetts, araldite and the crew bailing water. Was this why Benedict looked so composed? He also knows the fragility of the Church and knows how to rely on God’s grace and the good-will of many.

John Herd, Rome