VATICAN CITY, MAR 11, 2006 (VIS) - This morning, the Pope received participants in an international congress being held to mark the 40th anniversary of the Vatican Council II Decree "Ad gentes." The congress has been organized by the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and the Pontifical Urban University.
Benedict XVI affirmed that the approval of this decree, on December 7, 1965 gave "renewed impulse" to the Church's mission, which was recognized as being "a constituent element of her very nature."
"To announce and bear witness to the Gospel," he said, "is the main service Christians can render to individuals and to the entire human race."
Benedict XVI quoted the words of John Paul II to the effect that "the 'mission ad gentes' seems at times to slow down, because of difficulties due to the changing anthropological, cultural, social and religious environment of mankind." He went on: "The Church today is called to face up to new challenges and is ready to enter into dialogue with different cultures and religions seeking, together with all people of good will, to construct peaceful coexistence among peoples. ... Indeed, not just distant lands and non-Christian peoples, but also socio-cultural environments and, above all, hearts, are the true beneficiaries of the missionary activity of the People of God."
The Pope highlighted the fact that "the Church is called to serve the humanity of our time, trusting only in Jesus, allowing herself to be illuminated by His Word and imitating Him in giving herself generously to our brothers and sisters. She is an instrument in His hands, and for this reason does what she can, aware that it is always the Lord Who achieves everything."
"With the contribution of all Christians," he continued, "the announcement of the Gospel will surely become more widely-understood and effective. May Mary, the Star of evangelization, give help and support to those who, in so many regions of the world, work on the outlying frontiers of the mission."
The Holy Father concluded by recalling those who, "even in recent times, have given their lives for the Gospel. May their sacrifice bring a renewed springtime, one rich in apostolic fruits for evangelization."
AC/EVANGELIZATION:AD GENTES/... VIS 20060313 (380)
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