excerpts from Pope Francis' 1/24/14 Address to the Roman Rota

"I am meeting with you for the first time....

"The juridical dimension and the pastoral dimension of the Church’s ministry do not stand in opposition, for they both contribute to realizing the Church’s purpose and unity of action....

"I would now like to sketch a brief profile of the ecclesiastical judge. Firstly, his human profile: to be a judge requires a kind of human maturity, that is expressed in calm judgment, detached from personal views....

"The second aspect is the judicial one. In addition to the requirements of juridical and theological doctrine, in the exercise of his ministry the judge is characterized by his knowledge of law, the objectivity of judgement and fairness, by judging with imperturbable and impartial equidistance. In his work he is also guided by the intent to safeguard truth, respecting to the law, without overlooking the delicacy and humanity proper to a pastor of souls.

"The third aspect is the pastoral one. As an expression of the pastoral concern of the Pope and Bishops, the judge is required not only to have proven competence, but also to have a genuine spirit of service. He is the servant of justice called to treat and judge the condition of the faithful, who with confidence turn to him, by imitating the Good Shepherd who cares for the wounded lamb....

"Your ministry, dear judges and officials of the Tribunal of the Roman Rota, lived out in the joy and serenity that come from working where the Lord has placed us, is a special service to the God of Love, who is close to every person. You are essentially shepherds. As you carry out your juridical work, do not forget that you are pastors! In every case, every profession and every cause, people are waiting for justice.

"Dear friends, I thank you and I encourage you to proceed in your munus  with scrupulosity and gentleness. Pray for me! May the Lord bless you and may Our Lady protect you."

( http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/francesco/speeches/2014/january/documents/papa-francesco_20140124_rota-romana_en.html )