Francis celebrated the opening Mass of the ‘Liberi dalla paura’ meeting, which is promoted by Catholic associations dedicated to welcoming and integrating migrants. For the pontiff, “fear is legitimate" vis-à-vis people different from us.” But far too often, we “refuse to encounter the other and raise barriers to defend ourselves.” Instead, we are called to overcome fears to open ourselves to encountering others because “Forsaking encountering [others] is not human.”
Prayers and vigils in Sri Lanka for the beatification of Helena da Gonawila (photos)
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by Vladimir Rozanskij | RUSSIA-VATICANWorld Day of the Sick was celebrated in Kolkata. As papal envoy, the archbishop of Dhaka cited the example of Mother Teresa, who "made God’s love for the poor and sick visible". Serving the dying "converts the hearts" of those who generously offer themselves.
"There is an impressive absence in the text of the 'Our Father'. A word is lacking that in our times - but perhaps always - all hold in high esteem: the word 'I' is missing. " And "the whole second part of the 'Our Father' is declined to the first plural person: us".
The underground bishop, recognized by the government last January 30, has sought a way not to belong to the Patriotic Association and has even asked the Pope for forgiveness for this step. A look at the life of underground bishops and priests and an example for the official ones. Nanyang is an ancient mission of PIME (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions).
In Calcutta the celebrations for the 27th Day are underway, entitled "You received without payment; give without payment". The prefect of the Dicastery for Integral human development spoke about the role of health workers in the care of the suffering. The sick "are not only recipients of the work of evangelization, but also active subjects of this same apostolic action".
During the Angelus, Pope Francis called on governments to tackle the causes of trafficking. Likewise, he called on everyone to "work together by speaking out against cases of exploitation and slavery". Jesus helped Peter and his fellow fishermen by "helping them not to fall victim to disappointment and discouragement in the face of defeat. He opened them up to becoming proclaimers and witnesses to his word and to the kingdom of God.”
The "logic of mercy" should counter that of a "throwaway" culture. Ecological awareness should be raised and the value of life defended at a time of new possibilities offered by the development of biomedical sciences.
The story of John the Baptist, the precursor of Jesus, the one who said "Not I, this is" the Messiah. "He revealed him to the first disciples and then his light went out little by little, to the dark of that cell, in the prison, where, alone, he was beheaded". He died there in the cell, in anonymity, "like so many of our martyrs".
The advisory body wants to prevent the transfer of the nuns who might testify at the trial of Mgr Franco Mulakkal, who stands accused of raping a former superior of the Missionaries of Jesus. The nuns say they have been subjected to pressures and threats.
"We all need to be healed, because we all have spiritual diseases, all of us. But also we all have the opportunity to heal others, but only with this attitude. May the Lord give us this grace".
The vicar speaks of enthusiasm "exceeding all expectations" for the papal visit. The joint document a sign of a "serious will" to build new relations with Muslims. "Honest and authentic" relations with the heads of the Emirates. The words of the pontiff "source of pride" for local Catholics. The meeting with a "small delegation" from Yemen.
A statement by the director of Vatican Press Office confirms Francis’ availability.
The Pope appointed the Archbishop of Dhaka, Card D'Rozario, as his envoy. Card Turkson, Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for integral development will be present. The three-day event includes studies, as well as visits to patients in health facilities. A solemn Mass will be celebrated at the tomb of Mother Teresa.
At the general audience, Francis retraces his recent journey. In the Document on Human Fraternity, "together we affirm the common vocation of all men and women to be brothers and sisters as sons and daughters of God, condemn all forms of violence, especially those with religious motivation, and we commit ourselves to spreading authentic values and peace in the world ".
Cardinal al-Rahi praised the United Arab Emirates for hosting the Pope and sponsoring a joint Christian-Muslim declaration. During Mass, he highlighted anti-war warning in a region marked by conflicts. Yesterday, he spoke at the interfaith meeting.
