«MENTI NOSTRAE». – Opening phrase of the exhortation addressed on 23 September 1950 by Pius XII to the entire Catholic clergy, on priestly holiness (AAS, 42 [1950], pp. 657-702).
This substantial document develops, with warmth and adherence to the needs of the moment, the theme of priestly perfection, showing its intimate necessity, which arises from the character that reproduces the likeness of Christ (Part 1) and from the ministry that continues His redeeming work (Part 2). In indicating practical norms (Part 3), the most pressing problems imposed by modern times and which the priest must resolve are addressed (Part 4).
This exhortation, which forms a precious triptych with Pius X’s *Haerent Animo* and Pius XI’s *Ad Catholici Sacerdotii*, while renewing the appeal to all priests to glory in the humble privilege of evangelical renunciations, opens new paths in perfect harmony with tradition, yet with a sense of wholesome modernity.