The Holy See announced that Pope Benedict XVI will preside at the
Solemn Mass for the opening of the XIII Ordinary General Assembly of the
Synod of Bishops. The General Assembly will open on 7 October, the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time.
During the Mass, the Pope will proclaim Saint John of Avila and Saint Hildegard of Bingen “Doctors of the Church.”
St. John of Avila, a 16th century Spanish priest, was known for his preaching and for his reform of clerical life in his native country, while his spiritual works have enjoyed widespread popularity.
The 12th century German mystic St. Hildegard of Bingen was a professed member of the Benedictine order. She is known for her extensive writings and visions.
Pope Benedict will concelebrate the General Assembly’s opening Mass with the Synod Fathers, and with Bishops from the Spanish and German Episcopal Conferences.