Auxiliary Bishop Denis J. Madden of Baltimore told the assembly Aug. 13 that the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 offers an opportunity to "point the way toward Christian unity" rather than focusing on what keeps the two faith communities divided.
"Let the 500th anniversary of the Reformation be not a celebration of our historical and doctrinal divisions but a celebration of our dialogue even within our differences, of our unity, our mutual respect and love for each other," Bishop Madden said.
"In this way, we can say we are collaborators in the work of the Lord who is always and ever 'making all things new.'"
Pope Francis' words were evident throughout Bishop Madden's address. He cited the pope's repeated calls of building a "culture of encounter" during the first five months of his papacy.