Mumbai (AsiaNews) - Card. Cormac Murphy-O'Connor’s visit to India as Pope Benedict XVI’s representative on the occasion of Silver Jubilee of the historic journey of John Paul II in 1986, ended on February 10 last. "It is a privilege and an honour that the Pope has asked me to represent him at the celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the apostolic pilgrimage, and to reaffirm the ongoing work of the Church in India in support of the poor and marginalized," said the archbishop emeritus of Westminster at the end of the concluding mass. The ceremony, held in the church of S. Bandra in Mumbai, was concelebrated by Mgr. Salvatore Pennacchio, apostolic nuncio to India, and Card. Oswald Gracias, archbishop of Mumbai.
In his introduction Cardinal Gracias said that "Benedict XVI wants to continue along the path traced by Pope John Paul II, who addressed the young, laity, women, families, bishops, seminarians and leaders of other Christian denominations and other faiths." He said he was "grateful" to the Holy Father for having sent a personal representative for the celebrations held throughout the country. "
In his homily Cardinal O'Connor spoke to young people - as did John Paul II on the last day of his visit to India 25 years ago - "not just those who young in age, but all present. The Church is always young, because the Spirit of God gives new life. "
After the Eucharist, the Cardinal met with a large group of young people who asked the Archbishop how to deal with life's challenges. "We need - Card. O'Connor responded - a rhythm of life, prayer, work and play and not be overwhelmed by brief enthusiasms. " At this, Card. Gracias added that "today's young people must make a difference in the Church and make their contribution to civil society."
Card. O'Connor concluded the meeting with young people, saying: "You have to understand that everyone has a job to do and is called to play a significant role in the life of the Church. Always remembering the three basic components of the human being: mind, heart and hands".