Church in India visible sign of God’s unconditional love

VATICAN CITY, 31 May, 2011, 10:00 Hrs (Vatican Radio)

Pope Benedict XVI had words of praise for the tireless work of the Church in India in favour of the poor, sick and marginalised of “all faiths and none”.

He told the bishops, who are in Rome on their ad limina visit, that the Church in their country is a visible sign of God’s unconditional love.

Extending a warm welcome, the pontiff said your visit, is a particular moment of grace and a sign of the communion that exists between the Church in India and the See of Peter.

He thanked Archbishop Maria Callist Soosa Pakiam, who led the delegation, and extended his greetings to the “priests, the men and women religious, and the laity entrusted to your pastoral care”.

Stressing upon the proclamation of the Word of God, the pope said “God’s word is bearing rich spiritual fruit in your local Churches, especially through the spread of small Christian communities.

He asked the bishops to ensure through priests and lay leaders that God’s word is made readily available to those who seek it.

Every effort should be made to stress upon individual and group prayer.

The pontiff said the word of God not only consoles but also challenges believers to advance in justice, reconciliation and peace among themselves and in society as a whole.

He stressed on fidelity to the new commandment to love one another as selfless love finds practical expression in service to others and to the wider community.

Pope Benedict XVI noted the impressive signs of the Indian Church’s charity in many fields of social activity, especially healing, charitable missions, teaching, helping the poor, promotion of micro-credit.

He encouraged the bishops to persevere in this positive and practical witness, in fidelity to the Lord’s command and for the sake of the least of our brothers and sisters.

The pontiff also spoke of the grave challenges which threaten to undermine the unity, harmony and sanctity of the family, and about the work which must be done to build a culture of respect for marriage and family life.