EUROPE/ITALY - The message of hope from the Patron Saints of Europe: a contribution to the edification of “Europe’s soul,” based in the common Christian roots

Siena (Agenzia Fides) - On March 8, in Siena, in the crypt of the Basilica of Saint Dominic, there will be a Congress entitled: “Anima Europae: Europe’s Christian roots and the spiritual message of its Patron Saints.” The Congress, organized by the International Association of the Caterinati, in cooperation with the Dominican Fathers of Siena and the COMECE, will focus on the mission and the message of hope of the patron saints who have contributed to the edification of “Europe’s soul,” of an authentic spiritual, ethical, cultural union in Europe, based on the common Christian roots.
The workshops will begin with an address from Archbishop Antonio Buoncristiani of Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Montalcino, and President of the International Association of the Caterinati. The first talk will be on “Europe’s Christian Roots,” given by Prof. Giuseppe Dalla Torre, Rector of LUMSA (University of Santa Maria Asunta). Subsequent talks will be given by representatives from the Religious Families of the patron saints: from St. Benedict: Dom Mariano Del Omo, OSB, of the abbey of Montecassino, Professor in the Pontifical University of Saint Anselm; from St. Cyril and Methodius: Fr. Cyril Vasil, SJ, Rector of the Oriental Pontifical Institute; from St. Brigid: Sr. Concetta Guidi, Secretary General of the Bridgettine Sisters; from Saint Catherine of Siena: Fr. Lorenzo Fatichi, O.P., Prior of the Basilica of Saint Dominic in Siena; from Santa Teresa Benedicta de la Cruz (Edith Stein): Prof. Angela Ales Bello of the Pontifical Lateran University. The conclusions will be presented by Cardinal Renato Raffaele Martino, President of the Pontifical Council “Iustitia et Pax” and the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People.
During the Congress, Bishop Giuseppe Merisi of Lodi, Delegate of the CEI in the COMECE, will present the petition for the inclusion of Irish monk Saint Columban among the patron saints of Europe. Six large stained-glass windows of the patron saints will also be unveiled, on the occasion of the Congress. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 4/3/2008; righe 26, parole 327)