Princeps pastorum
1959 papal encyclical by John XXIII
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Princeps pastorum (Latin for 'Prince of the shepherds') is the title of an encyclical letter promulgated by Pope John XXIII on 28 November 1959.[1][2] It is derived from a biblical passage: I Peter 5:4. In its English translation the letter opens with the phrase On the day when "the Prince of the shepherds" entrusted to Us His lambs and sheep. It refers to Jesus Christ.
| Princeps pastorum Latin for 'Prince of the Shepherds' Encyclical of Pope John XXIII | |
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| Signature date | 28 November 1959 |
| Subject | About the missionary apostolate |
| Number | 4 of 8 of the pontificate |
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It celebrates the success of Roman Catholic missions to promote the faith, encourages the fostering of native clergy in the countries to which the missions extended[3] and emphasises the importance of lay Catholics as representatives of the church in non-Catholic countries.[4] The encyclical points out that while social welfare initiatives are to be supported, the primary task of missions should be to spread Catholic doctrine.[5]