Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Toledo (Agenzia Fides) – In a statement signed May 30, Cardinal Antonio Cañizares, Archbishop of Toledo (Spain) and Primate of Spain, announced that on the Solemnity of Christ the King, the Archdiocese of Toledo will renew its consecration to the Heart of Jesus. Recalling the fact that 89 years ago the Bishops of Spain “wished to lead all faithful to this font of Life and Salvation, in order to renew the entire People of God in holiness and apostolic zeal through the consecration of Spain to this Divine Heart,” the Cardinal expresses his desire that “the Archdiocese of Toledo revive this act of grace and renew its Consecration on the Solemnity of Christ the King, this coming November 23. I invite you to begin now your personal and communal preparation for this act of Consecration.” In anticipation for the event, beginning in September, pastoral materials designed to facilitate preparations will be distributed among the parishes, schools, apostolic groups, and families.
“This consecration is an act of profound adoration, in gratitude towards our Redeemer. It is a ‘yes’ to His merciful love and His plan for us,” the Cardinal said. “It takes on a character similar to that of the renewal of Baptismal Promises, with a rejection of sin and adhesion to Christ and His Church. It is, therefore, a profound act of ecclesial communion rooted in adhesion to the Redeemer and to His teachings and style of life, centered on Charity as the synthesis of the behavior befitting of our dignity as children of God.” It will also mark the inauguration of the Pastoral Year, centered on the value of ecclesial communion and the cultivation of the spirituality of communion. The Cardinal concludes his statement by expressing his hope that all will support this initiative, “which I hope will bear abundant spiritual and pastoral fruits.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 2/6/2008)
