Pope Benedict XVI welcomed all those who attended the International Conference of
the Benedictine Confederation today, offering thoughts on how to respond to the challenges
of the modern world.
We have this report...
Describing
a faithless world marked by a worrying shift towards a culture of emptiness, Pope
Benedict XVI called on Benedictine abbots to uncompromisingly celebrate the primacy
of God.
The Holy Father also expressed his gratitude for the cultural and educational
role played by many Benedictine monasteries, particularly in supporting younger generations
and creating a welcoming space. He highlighted the importance of preparing young people
for future challenges in life through the word of the Gospel, which remains ever relevant,
constant and vibrant.
The youth are the future of the Church, said His Holiness.
In order to build a ‘new’ Europe, we must begin with the new generations, giving them
the opportunity to become intimately familiar with the word of God.
The Benedictine
Confederation of the Order of Saint Benedict is the international governing body
of the Order of Saint Benedict, and was founded in 1883 by Pope Leo XIII.
There
are 21 National Congregations of the Benedictine Order, representing the over 300
Benedictine monasteries in the world.