Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Cartagena (Agenzia Fides) – “It is an opportune moment for the entire Church, with our eyes fixed on the life and writings of the Apostle to the Gentiles, to grow in her knowledge of her Lord and in the desire to communicate Him to all those who still do not know Him,” said Bishop Juan Antonio Reig Pla of Cartagena (Spain) in a letter he addressed to all priests, religious, and laity, on the occasion of the Pauline Year that will initiate on June 28.
“For all of us, this year should become a new Damascus,” the Bishop continued. That is, a time for true conversion, “to make us come down from the lofty heights where we have placed ourselves and lower ourselves in recognition of our own sin, to let us reconcile ourselves with God.” Thus, he asks that this year, “the Sacrament of Reconciliation be better and more frequently celebrated,” asking that the priests make themselves available to do so. The Bishop mentions that “this year should also be an opportune moment to speak of vocations.” Just as Saint Paul asked, “What should I do, Lord?,” so should every member of the Church ask the same question. “He has called each one of us. He has come into each of our lives and knocked us off our horse, onto the ground. For all of us, He has a concrete mission for us to fulfill.”
Furthermore, in the Pauline Year, “our Diocese should become an authentic missionary Church,” allowing all our hearts to be set on fire, with the same fire that “burned inside Saint Paul and would not let him take a moment to rest or remain in one place.” Bishop Reig reminds the faithful that “we should all go out to meet our fellow citizens,” as many of them do not yet know “the One who gave His life for them. All people, the entire Church, is called to go out into the public places and announce the Gospel, that has the power of salvation for all those who believe.”
He also refers to the importance of the ecumenical dimension that the Holy Father has called for. “We should also do all we can to restore the lost unity, with prayers and action.” It is a year, he says, “of renewal for each one of the parishes in the Diocese.” In the Diocese, the solemn opening Mass for the Pauline Year will be celebrated on June 28 at 11:00am, coinciding with the ordination of 5 new priests.
“Dear children,” the bishop said, at the close of his letter, “let us not ignore this gift that God, rich in mercy, gives to us, as it is a unique opportunity to break out of our routine and wash off the dirt we have accumulated along our path, which many times is difficult in walking through this world. It is an opportunity for personal renewal and to go out with fresh zeal into our society, announcing the Good News to Jesus Christ, the Lord, who has conquered sin and death.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 13/6/2008)
