Rome (Fides Service) - “Giving reasons for life and hope, the mission of Catholic Action in the parish and beyond” was the theme of the 12th national assembly of Catholic Action Italy held in Rome from 22 to 25 April. “An assembly, the final statement reads, unique because it came between the pontificates, the end of the extraordinary one of John Paul II and the beginning of this one charged with great expectations and promise of Benedict XVI ”.
The Holy Father did not fail to send warm greetings to Catholic Action expressed in a message signed by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Secretary of State: “in recent years your worthy association has concentrated on helping the members redefine their identity and renew their commitment for formation. Now it intends to discern lines of programming and elect a new national council. His Holiness wishes to encourage heartily you and in continuity with the paternal benevolence of his beloved and venerated Predecessor John Paul II he repeats his words to you: “I know you are there, the Church has need of Catholic Action”. The Pope is aware of your faithfulness and knows he can rely on your total dedication to the holy Church of God. At this time in history we need believers, men and women, who with illuminated and lived faith render valid witness to Christ, his truth and his love. The Supreme Pontiff wishes you all, adults, young people and children, to be happy and proud members of the Church capable of sharing your reasons for life and hope with our society often anxious and tossed “here and there by all winds of doctrine” (Eph 4,14). Assuring his prayers for your Assembly and for the future journey of Catholic Action Italy, His Holiness invokes upon you the maternal protection of Most Holy Mary and gladly sends to all his Apostolic Blessing”. (P.L.R.) (Agenzia Fides 27/04/2005 - Righe 20; Parole 315)