Der martyrologische Charakter der priesterlichen Existenz
Martyrological Character of Priestly Existence

Summary/Abstract: The article tries – based on the presented theology of martyrdom – to show that the life and ministry of priests, even if they do not die as martyrs, have a martyrological character. The starting point is an analysis of the meaning of the word martyria and its use in the New Testament and in early Christian literature. Then, selected approaches to the theology of martyrdom in patristic times and today are presented. In the last step, the aspects of priestly existence which reveal its martyrological character are discussed: a testimony to the life of Jesus Christ, representing Christ, preaching, celibacy, obedience, poverty and following Jesus in carrying the cross.

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