SOLID PARTNERSHIP WITH THE WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

VATICAN CITY, FEB 14, 2006 (VIS) - Benedict XVI has written a message to Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, for the occasion of the ninth general assembly of the Geneva-based World Council of Churches (WCC), which is being held at Porto Alegre, Brazil, from February 14 to 23.

  In the English-language text, Benedict XVI writes: "Mindful of our shared baptismal faith in the Triune God, the Catholic Church and the World Council of Churches seek ways to cooperate ever more effectively in the task of witnessing to God's divine love. After 40 years of fruitful collaboration, we look forward to continuing this journey of hope and promise, as we intensify our endeavors towards reaching that day when Christians are united in proclaiming the Gospel message of salvation to all."

  The Pope concludes with assurances of his spiritual closeness to those participating in the Porto Alegre meeting, and reaffirms "the Catholic Church's intention to continue a solid partnership with the World Council of Churches."
MESS/WORLD COUNCIL CHURCHES/KASPER                VIS 20060214 (180)