Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - “The recently celebrated Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops was memorable in its call for renewed efforts in the service of a more profound evangelization of your continent (cf. Message to the People of God, 15). The power of the word of God and the knowledge and love of Jesus cannot but transform people’s lives by changing for the better the way they think and act.” This is what the Holy Father Benedict XVI told the Bishops of Uganda in their Ad Limina Apostolorum visit on March 5.
The Pope highlighted the need to continue encouraging Ugandan Catholics “to appreciate fully the sacrament of marriage in its unity and indissolubility, and the sacred right to life.” He then mentioned the need to help “priests as well as the lay faithful, to resist the seduction of a materialistic culture of individualism,” to “continue to call for lasting peace based on justice, generosity towards those in need and a spirit of dialogue and reconciliation,” and to promote “true ecumenism,” showing themselves to be especially close to “those who are more vulnerable to the advances of sects.”
In particular, Benedict XVI mentioned the importance of “popular forms of evangelization such as the organized pilgrimages to the Shrine of the Ugandan Martyrs at Namugongo,” and exhorted the Bishops to “sustain all who with generous hearts assist displaced persons and orphans from war-torn areas. Encourage those who care for people afflicted by poverty, Aids and other diseases, teaching them to see in those whom they serve the suffering face of Jesus.”
Highlighting the importance of reinforcing Catholic culture, the Pope expressed his appreciation for the educational programs being carried out in parishes, schools, and associations, as well as the Bishops' interventions on topics of common interest, as well as the formation of the laity, especially in Catholic Social Doctrine, so they may become active in the media, in politics, and culture. “In this way, society as a whole will benefit from trained and zealous Christians who take up leadership roles in the service of the common good.”
The Holy Father then called for concrete solidarity that comes forth from communion with Christ: “Dioceses that enjoy more resources, both materially and spiritually, should assist those that have less. At the same time, all communities have a duty to strive for self-sufficiency. It is important that your people develop a sense of responsibility towards themselves, their community and their Church, and become more deeply imbued with a Catholic spirit of sensitivity to the needs of the universal Church.”
In concluding his address, the Pope invited the Bishops to offer their assistance and be good examples for their priests, exhorting them to “prayer and vigilance, especially with regard to self-centred, worldly or political ambitions, or excessive attachment to family or ethnic group.” He also urged them to continue promoting vocations, especially caring for the discernment of candidates and their formation. Also, he exhorted them to assist religious with their counsel and prayer, and place great care and attention in the training of catechists, paying close attention to their needs.
Before imparting his Apostolic Blessing, the Holy Father referred to the Ugandan Martyrs as “models of great courage and endurance in suffering,” inviting them to count on their intercession and always “strive always to be worthy of their legacy.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 6/3/2010)
