Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - The particular Churches in Oceania show an unquestionable vitality maintained by the Apostolic Exhortation “Ecclesia in Oceania,” which has been translated and printed into many of the different local languages. Thus, it can be more widely used in Church activities, such as pastoral visits and parish catechesis programs. The document has been chosen by some as a thesis topic, for an investigation on the roots of the faith in Oceania. These have been the conclusions met from the Special Council for Oceania of the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops, held in the Vatican on February 14-15, 2008.
According to a conclusive document, a greeting and introduction were given by the Archbishop Nikola Eterovic, Secretary General, who verified the application of “Ecclesia in Oceania” in the current situation of the Church and of society in the great continent that holds a third of the earth’s landmass. Other subject addressed were the World Youth Day in Sydney, the influence of the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, Sacramentum Caritatis, and a reflection on the 12th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.
From what participants commented, it was evident that the pastoral plans dedicate particular attention to some priorities that refer to human rights, bioethics, the good of society, the family, ecology, relativism, with special emphasis on charity, inculturation, and ecumenical and interreligious dialogue. In speaking of the internal life of the Church, much emphasis was placed on holiness, the liturgy, the priesthood, and formative activities. A constant effort in support of Catholic schools, health care institutions, mass media, and youth and immigrant ministry work, was also addressed.
The World Youth Day in Sydney, in July 2008, was also mentioned. The entire continent has begun to take part in preparations, both in the more socially-developed areas, as well as in the poorer sectors. The themes of the world encounter are those pertinent to a modern society, such as secularism or the lack of young people practicing their faith. However, at the same time, there are many others of the same generation that live their faith with commitment and manifest a special dedication to World Youth Day, having participated in previous encounters. There are many initiatives underway in order to help a considerable number of young people from poorer areas participate in the WYD. The WYD is considered one of the most important events in the history of Australia. Interest in the Pope’s visit is growing, as it is sure to be a source of many graces. The individual Churches on the continent are experiencing an especially abundant Eucharistic life, a fruit of the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation “Sacramentum Caritatis.” The Eucharistic devotion also manifests comforting signs, especially in the participation and practice of adoration on the part of the faithful. Pastors also are dedicating more and more attention to the ministry of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
In light of the coming 12th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, October 5-26, with the theme: “The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church,” Oceania finds in the Word of God the source and inspiration for a new evangelization of the great continent, as well as for the spirituality and authentic morality of life, with the goal of facing the great challenges of preaching the Gospel, mostly presented by the large cultural difficulties. The laity participates in the mission of the hierarchy in spreading the Word of God through a renewed practice of the Lectio Divina, that offers a greater knowledge of Christ and leads to meditation and prayer. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 26/2/2008; righe 46, parole 591)
