On 19-21 November, economists and entrepreneurs under 35 from around the world will meet online. More than 40 countries will be connected, with live streaming from Assisi. Some 2,000 people have registered with at least 12 link-ups to 115 countries, four hours a day plus a 24-hour marathon on the second day, and contributions from more than 20 countries.
The meeting with the president of the German Bishops Conference, in all likelihood touched upon the assembly with "deliberative power" convoked by the Germans to address issues such as the separation of power in the Church, priestly life, women's access to ministry and to offices in the Church and sexual morality.
This morning Francis received in audience the participants in the 95th Plenary Assembly of Reunion of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches (ROACO). The latter is an example of the "synodal journey" of the universal Church. From Syria to Tigray, it is committed to alleviate the suffering of peoples. In the Middle East, “ecumenism already exists, first of all, as a local reality” with shared “suffering and witness”.
Lebanese PM Mikati issues a warning to the international community (and the West) for a return of refugees. Estimates speak of 1.5 million, a portion may return to pacified Syria. Their presence risks causing a demographic imbalance and upsetting the "covenant of common life."
After years of isolation due to war and pandemic, the community founded by Father Dall'Oglio is again welcoming pilgrims and visitors. For Abbot Br Jihad Youssef, the monastery is “a spiritual oasis of peace and friendship” in a still harsh context.
The pontiff met today with members of the Greek Melkite Patriarchal Church on the day they begin their synodal work. He reminded them of the night of prayer in St Peter’s, which included Muslims, in the first year of his pontificate, as well as their episcopal task to bear “witnesses” to the faith. The Church’s large diaspora “undoubtedly represents a challenge, ecclesial but also cultural and social”.
