subject: Ecclesia in Oceania in Rome [print this page] Ecclesia in Oceania in Rome Ecclesia in Oceania in Rome
The People of God in the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, Australia, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands. Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,1. We Catholic bishops of the Catholic Church Latin America and Eastern Europe, the fraternal delegates and other participants were invited by the Holy Father to come to Rome to participate with him in the Special Assembly for Oceania of the Synod of Bishops. We have prayed, studied and reflected together on issues concerning the Catholic Church in our countries and the world. Pope John Paul II was an attentive listener during all sessions and have, by given the principal fruits of our share, now expect, in due course, his thoughtful response. As we prepare to leave Rome, however, we wish to send this message.2. We were literally taken from the "ends of the earth to the place where the Apostles Peter and Paul have spilled their blood in witness of their faith in Jesus Christ.3. Many of you have helped us to prepare for this Synod, centered on Jesus Christ: His Way, Telling His Truth, Living His Life: A Call for the peoples of Oceania.4.
This issue requires that the Church in Oceania, in communion with the universal Church, to receive and proclaim the Gospel in light of its historical development and different cultural, social, political and economic region of our vast and scattered.Official opening5. The Holy Father opened the Synod concelebrating the solemn celebration of the Eucharist at the tomb of the Apostle Peter on November 22, the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.6. The Bishops of Oceania, with the pilgrims and members of the Church in Rome, the Pope joined in prayer to the Holy Spirit, to help the Church in Oceania to step up its evangelizing mission in preparation for the Jubilee Year 2000.7. During the Mass, the Holy Father greeted you all in the person of your bishop and I was invited to reflect on your life and renew your faith.8. The many different places and Oceania with their rich cultural expressions have been represented in the dances, songs, prayers and ritual of celebration, full of joy and enthusiasm.9. The importance of the Word of God is beautifully illustrated by a procession in which the Book of the Gospels was carried on a throne decorative Samoan, escorted by four leaders who served as honor guard. The proclamation of the Gospel was announced by the sound of shells. 110. The overall effect was such as to leave no doubt that the Spirit "dwelt upon the waters' of Oceania.
When You book a nice apartment in Rome Apartment in Rome, with us You'll realize how beautiful and magic this city is.
Book our Rome apartments , and You'll enjoy the unique atmosphere of this beautiful city
