The importance of faith
formation even in the Indian reality was highlighted today by Benedict
XVI when he received the group of bishops of the Syro-Malankara rite,
received during their five-yearly visit "ad Limina Apostolorum”, during
which he also spoke of the contribution that Christianity has made the development of culture in India.
The Pope began by emphasizing the value that the plurality of rites, lived in union with the universal Church.
"All
Catholic Bishops share a proper concern for faithfulness to Jesus
Christ and are desirous of that unity which he willed for his disciples
(cf. Jn 17:11), while preserving their legitimate diversity”.
"Due to its ancient roots and distinguished history, - he then said - Christianity
in India has long made its proper contribution to culture and society,
and to its religious and spiritual expressions. It is through a
determination to live the Gospel, “the power of God for salvation to
every one who has faith” (Rom 1:16), that those whom you serve will make a more effective contribution to the entire body of Christ and to Indian society, to the benefit of all".
Benedict XVI then highlighted the importance of education
in the faith "through programs of catechesis" and expressed his
satisfaction for "the variety and number of programs put in place by the
bishops. “Along with the celebration of the
sacraments, such programmes will help ensure that those in your care
will always be able to give an account of the hope which is theirs in
Christ. Indeed, catechesis and spiritual development are among the most
important challenges which pastors of souls face, and so I warmly
encourage you to persevere along the path you have chosen as you seek to
form your people in a deeper knowledge and love of the faith”.
"I note - he said the
particular challenges to many of your parishes in providing proper
pastoral care and mutual support, especially when there is not always a
parish priest at hand. And yet, smaller parishes, bearing in mind the
social reality Christians face in the broader cultural context, present
their own opportunities for truly fraternal upbuilding and assistance.
Small Christian communities have often, as you know, given outstanding
witness in the history of the Church."