AMERICA/ARGENTINA - 2006 Diocesan Year of Christian vocation and mission in Nueve de Julio

Thursday, 15 December 2005

Buenos Aires (Fides Service) - In order to foster spiritual and pastoral renewal and as part of five years of preparation for the 50th anniversary of its foundation Nueve de Julio diocese in Argentina has decided to make 2006 the diocesan ‘Year of Christian Vocation and Mission’, following 2003 Faith and Baptism; 2004 the Eucharist and 2005 Family.
The Bishop of Nueve de Julio, Bishop Martin de Elizalde said that in 2006 the diocese will reflect on the Christian calling, the significance of being chosen by God and to be members of the Church: “God calls us (vocation), to live the faith. We have the grace and good fortune to be incorporated into the Church, to receive baptism and the other sacraments, to be instructed in the doctrine of the Gospel and to experience communion, renewed in the Eucharist and expressed in bonds of charity. Our calling unites us and sends us (mission) to proclaim Christ, to bear witness to him with our lives, to work with the Church”.
In 2006 the diocese will give particular attention to the sacrament of confirmation to ensure those who receive it are well prepared to take an active part in liturgical and sacramental life, the apostolate, catechesis, works of charity, proclaiming the Gospel to those who have yet to hear of Jesus Christ, or those who have distanced themselves from Him.
Bishop Martin de Elizalde said he would give attention in the coming months also to the call to the priesthood and the religious life, to those who answer generously God’s call and dedicate themselves to helping others and preaching the Good News of salvation not forgetting those in many parts of the world who risk their lives to bear witness to the faith.
America/Argentina: info Nueve de Julio(Pontifical Year Book 2005) Area: 56,743 sq. km; population: 382,196; Catholics 343,977; parishes: 38; churches or mission stations: 106; diocesan priests: 34; religious priests: 18; permanent deacons: 4; major seminarians: 6; brothers.: 30; women religious: 84; schools: 55; charity works: 10; baptisms: 5.462. (RZ) (Agenzia Fides 15/12/2005, righe 27, parole 373)


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