Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Moscow (Fides Service) - With regard to the election of Benedict XVI in a message to his people to be read on Sunday 25 April in all the Catholic churches in the diocese Catholic Archbishop Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz of Mother of God archdiocese in Moscow said “The Church was orphaned with the death of John Paul II, but now after a short time of uncertainty she takes new heart because her visible Head has been chosen, Peter of our day has been elected. Christ who lives in the Church has revealed the one who is to be the 265th successor of St Peter”.
“As when in mourning for John Paul II, so too during the days of the conclave the universal Church showed to the world her unity and communion - the message reads - . Inspired by the Holy Spirit the Cardinal electors representing 52 different countries and with the responsibility of the whole Church on their shoulders came to a swift decision to elect the Pontiff and this reveals the Church’s unity in principles. All this was transformed into new joy and hope for the Catholic Church and for the world which expects the Church to be an example of spiritual unity.”
Archbishop Kondrusiewicz continued: “With gratitude to God and with hope the Catholics of Russia welcome the election of the new Pope whom they consider a great gift. They express to him their devotion and obedience, the see him as a good shepherd who will lead them in this new season, care for and protect this ‘little flock’ which awaits his visit to this land of Russia, which will mark the realisation of the fondest dream of the predecessor of Pope Benedict XVI , John Paul II. While thanking God for the long and fruitful ministry of the late Pope John Paul II now we must support the new Pontiff Benedict XVI with our prayers. This is for us a sacred duty because he is our father. We call the Pope Holy Father to underline our filial devotion.” There is a postscript requesting all Catholic priests in Moscow to celebrate Mass for the new Pope on Sunday April 25 and to read the message to the faithful. And announcing that on Saturday 23 at 7pm a mass of thanksgiving for the election of Benedict XVI will be celebrated in Moscow’s Catholic Cathedral dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of Mary the Mother of God. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 21/4/2005 - righe 26; parole 385)
