To serve means making sacrifices

Don’t think, though, that it is easy to make life one of service. This good desire must be translated into deeds, for the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power (1 Cor 4:20). And we cannot be of constant assistance to others without sacrifice. As St Paul wrote, Instantia mea quotidiana sollicitudo omnium ecclesiarum (2 Cor 11:28), there is the daily pressure upon me of the anxiety for all the churches. And this sigh of the Apostle reminds all Christians of the responsibility we faithful must all feel, to place what we are and what we have at the feet of the Spouse of Jesus Christ – of the holy Church – loving her most faithfully, even at the cost of fortune, reputation and life.

Variety of ministries and unity of service

For this reason, on beginning these considerations there comes to my mind the heavy burden that weighs upon the Pope and the bishops, and I feel urged to remind you that you ought to offer them veneration, affection and help with your prayer and with your life of dedication. The members of the Mystical Body are certainly very varied, but all can summarise their mission as a service to God, and to the entire Mystical Body, to souls.