Curiosity and speculation about who is going to be the next Archbishop of Malta and the virtues he should have are in full swing. Few people, however, are giving enough attention to what Pope Francis has been saying on various occasions about his views on the choice of a bishop.

“To identify a bishop,” the Pope is on record stating, “a list of human, intellectual, cultural and even pastoral qualities are not useful. The profile of a bishop is not the algebraic sum of his virtues.”

Addressing a meeting of the Congregation of Bishops on February 24, 2014, Pope Francis added that certainly a bishop must be outstanding. He pointed out the following gifts.

His human integrity ensures his capacity for healthy, balanced relationships, so as not to project his own shortcomings onto others and become an element of instability. His Christian soundness is essential for promoting fraternity and communion.

His upright behaviour attests to the high standard of the disciples of the Lord. His cultural preparation allows him to dialogue with men and their cultures.

His orthodoxy and fidelity to the truth, whole and integral, which the Church safeguards, makes of him a pillar and point of reference.

His interior and exterior discipline allow for self-mastery and open up opportunities for welcoming and leading others.

His ability to govern with paternal firmness ensures the safety of the authority that leads to growth.

His transparency and detachment in the administrations of the goods of the community invest him with authority and meet with the esteem of all.

“All of these indispensable gifts must nonetheless be secondary to the central witness to the Risen One, subordinate to this primary commitment. It is the Spirit of the Risen One who fashions his witnesses, who integrates and elevates their qualities and value in fashioning a bishop,” said the Pope.