Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Fides Service) - “The election of His Holiness Benedict XVI was a swift and marvellous convergence of intentions, a choice obviously guided by God. This choice was accompanied by prayers of Catholics of the world ” Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani, archbishop of Lima told Fides.
“The emotion and sadness with which the Catholic world gathered around its Shepherd John Paul II during his illness and death, and the affection and devotion shown by thousands who came to pay their last respects to the Pontiff were a demonstration of the affection, respect and gratitude which the world felt towards John Paul II. The prayer and expectation with which everyone then followed the election of the new Pope and the great joy at the news of his election are a clear sign that he world awaited a Vicar of Christ who would give continuity to the great work undertaken by his Predecessor. Who better than he who had been one of the best friends and closest collaborators of John Paul II, could guarantee that that gift of God, the marvellous pontificate of John Paul II, would continue to bear fruit? I believe without doubt that Pope Benedict XVI is God’s gift to the Church. Moreover, the newly elected Supreme Pontiff with his profound spirituality, eminently reflective character and vast culture and rich formation, united with great experience as head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith - allowed him among other things to be well informed of the problems on the different continents - is certainly the person better able to direct and lead the Church which courage and certainty, in total fidelity to the Gospel of Christ like Pope Wojtyla, but with the touch of his own personality. Now - the Cardinal concluded - we must support him with our prayers so he may be the great Pope we all expect”. (R.Z.) (Agenzia Fides 25/4/2005; righe 28, parole 386)
