VATICAN CITY, OCT 10, 2004 (VIS) - The Holy Father, before reciting the Angelus, reminded the pilgrims assembled in St. Peter's Square that the International Eucharistic Congress opens today in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the theme "'The Eucharist, Light and Life of the New Millennium'. I spiritually join this important ecclesial event, with which the Year of the Eucharist will open."
He reminded the faithful of his just-published Apostolic Letter which, he said, " starts with these words: 'Mane nobiscum, Domine' - stay with us, Lord. May this invocation be echoed in every Christian community: in recognizing the Risen Christ 'in breaking bread', may the faithful be ready to witness to Him with effective charity."
The Pope added that "a privileged expression of charity in the local Church is the diocesan Caritas. In Rome, Caritas is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its founding. I thank God for the many good fruits that have matured over the years and I encourage the ecclesial community to pursue formative work and service to the poor and needy."
After the Angelus prayer, John Paul II greeted the participants in the Social Week of Italian Catholics which has been taking place in Bologna on the theme 'Democracy: New Scenarios, New Powers'." He said he hoped the meeting would offer new stimulus "for an ever more incisive witness in every milieu of the life of the country."
In closing, he pointed out that "next Sunday afternoon, in spiritual communion with everyone in Guadalajara, the International Eucharistic Congress will close and I will preside in St. Peter's Square at a solemn celebration for the opening of the Year of the Eucharist throughout the Church. I invite the faithful to participate in great numbers in this important ecclesial event, to render choral homage to Christ, light and life of the new millennium."
ANG/EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS:CARITAS/... VIS 20041011 (320)
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