Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Aachen (Agenzia Fides) – With the delivery of a crown and a big star, symbols of the traditional solidarity campaign of the "Star Singers" (Die Sternsinger), and with amidst music, the Board of Directors and staff of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood (HCA) in Germany said good-bye in recent days to their outgoing president, Msgr. Winfried Pilz who is leaving the HCA after ten years of service. "I am very grateful for the excellent cooperation, for their commitment and for the great solidarity of all the collaborators," said Msgr. Pilz in his dismissal. "In past years, we have seen major developments," he stressed, referring to the collections made throughout the country by the “Star Singers” (Die Sternsinger) and expressing his wishes for great success in the future.
As part of the farewell celebration, Msgr. Pilz presided over a Mass which was concelebrated by the National Director of Pontifical Mission Societies (Missio) in Aachen, Msgr. Klaus Krämer and by the delegate for charities for the German Bishops' “Misereor,” Fr. Josef Sayer.
At the end of the celebration Msgr. Pilz gave the star to his successor, Msgr. Krämer, who commented: "I gladly accept this star because it is a beautiful symbol. Your time of service was a good one that will give me strength to carry the star forward, building on the foundations you have laid." Msgr. Krämer will officially be installed in the new post of HCA Director during a Mass to be celebrated in the Cathedral of Aachen on May 26.
With their campaign of "Star Singers," the children of HCA in Germany support about 3,200 projects for children who are in difficult situations around the world. In 2009, the association supported projects in 113 countries with 66.6 million Euros. Alongside the promotion of projects to help children, the Holy Childhood Association is also committed to defending the rights of and carrying out missionary animation and formation. (MS) (Agenzia Fides 08/04/2010)
