VATICAN CITY, MAY 13, 2004 (VIS) - This morning the Holy Father received participants in the general chapter of the Society of St. Paul who are addressing the theme "Being St. Paul Today. A Congregation that looks to the Future."
John Paul II recalled that their founder, Blessed Giacomo Alberione, wrote 50 years ago: "'The Pauline family must be St. Paul today, according to the mind of the divine Master.' ... The theme that you have chosen invites you to start again from Christ and St. Paul. But," he asked, "how can we put this into action? Blessed Alberione tells you: by getting to know the apostle better, by better imitating his virtues, by praying to him, by loving him."
"The future of your congregation depends on your fidelity to its charism. Make a commitment to always unite a constant search for holiness to the necessary professional competency. Above all, be men of prayer and joyful testimony to an unwavering faithfulness to Christ. May the Divine Master, to Whom every apostolic and missionary activity must be directed in the field of social communications which is so important for the new evangelization, crown every project. With this interior orientation, in full fidelity to the Church and its pastors, you will be able to fulfill the in-depth work of updating the precious spiritual, doctrinal and apostolic heritage that your founder left you."
The Pope concluded by emphasizing that if they carry out their apostolic plans, which require a great effort, "and constant faithfulness to the original spirit of the institute, you will offer a precious contribution to the mission of the Church in the third millennium."
AC/.../SOCIETY ST PAUL VIS 20040513 (300)
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