VATICAN - Holy Father’s Message to the Pontifical Council for Culture conference under way in Tanzania: “May your decisions help the Church in Africa to find new and efficient means in presenting the perennial truth of the Gospel.”

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The African Members and Consultors of the Pontifical Council for Culture, along with the Prelates of different Episcopal Conferences who have a responsibility for the pastoral approach to culture are meeting from July 23-26, 2008 in Bagamoyo, Tanzania, in an encounter on the theme of “Pastoral Prospects for the New Evangelization in the Context of Globalization and its Effects on African Cultures” (see Fides 18/7/2008). During the inaugural session of the Meeting, the Apostolic Nuncio, Joseph Chennoth, read a telegram sent by the Holy Father Benedict XVI, signed by Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. It reads: “The Holy Father has joyfully received the news of the encounter being held by the Pontifical Council for Culture in Bagamoyo, Tanzania, July 22-26 and sends his best wishes to the participants. His Holiness will be accompanying them in his prayer as they reflect on the “Pastoral Prospects for the New Evangelization in the Context of Globalization and its Effects on African Cultures.” This mission is ancient yet ever new, a task ‘which has its origin in the mystery of the incarnation itself and its motivation in the innate ability of the Gospel to take root in every culture’ (Pastores gregis, 30). The Holy Father prays that your decisions help the Church in Africa to find new and efficient means in presenting the perennial truth of the Gospel, especially the values of joy in life, respect for the unborn child, the crucial role of the family, and the profound sense of communion and solidarity present in African cultures (cf. Ecclesia in Africa, 43). Entrusting your work to Mary, Mother of the Church, His Holiness imparts his heartfelt Apostolic Blessing.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 25/7/2008)