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Preaching
the Primary Apostolate
90. However, leaving aside
this aspect of the matter, We want to stress once more the very important place
that preaching still has, especially in the modern Catholic apostolate and in
connection with the dialogue which is Our present concern. No other form of
communication can take its place; not even the exceptionally powerful and
effective means provided by modern technology: the press, radio and television.
In effect, the apostolate and sacred
preaching are more or less synonymous terms. Preaching is the primary
apostolate. Our ministry, Venerable Brethren, is before all else the ministry
of the Word. We are well aware of this, but it is good to remind ourselves of
it at the present time so as to give the right orientation to our pastoral
activities. We must return to the study, not of human eloquence of empty
rhetoric, but of the genunine are of proclaiming the Word of God.
91. We must search for the
principles which make for simplicity, clarity, effectiveness and authority, and
so overcome our natural ineptitude in the use of this great and mysterious
instrument of the divine Word, and be a worthy match for those whose skill in
the use of words makes them so influential in the world today and gives them
access to the organs of public opinion. We must pray to the Lord for this
vital, soul-stirring gift, 60 that we may be fit instruments in the
work of really and effectively preaching the faith, 61 and that our
message may reach to the ends of the earth. 62
May we carry out intelligently and zealously
everything that the Council's Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy has prescribed
regarding the ministry of the Word. And may the instruction we give our
Christian people and others, insofar as it is possible, be skillfully
expressed, carefully thought out, and zealously imparted. May it be supported
by the evidence of real virtue. Progress must be its aim. It must concern
itself with imparting a sure faith, a realization of the intimate connection
between God's Word and man's life, and the enjoyment of some ray of divine
light.
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