Las homilías de Benedicto XVI

The homiletic activity of Joseph Ratzinger/ Benedict XVI is a rich body of documentary material, which complements the strictly theological activity of the former professor and later Roman Pontiff. The paper explains how Ratzinger/Benedict XVI conceives the homily. Some features of Ratzinger/Benedict XVI’s homilies are: 1) the use of questions posed by the preacher, in many cases representing the community he is addressing; 2) the use of contrast and even paradox; 3) the expressions of I-Thou or I-You dialogue involving God and the listener. The seven chrismal homilies of Benedict XVI’s pontificate are discussed, and especially some signs associated with the priesthood: the imposition and anointing of hands and priestly vestments.