(May 16, 2009) The secret to evangelization is a longing for sanctity, contemplation
of the face of Christ, and a desire to share him with others, says Pope Benedict XVI.
The Pope affirmed this in a message to the Pontifical Missionary Works. About 100
of its directors have been gathered in general assembly in Rome since Monday. According
to a statement from the information office of the Spanish chapter of the Works, the
papal message also referred to the face of Christ "present in the poor and marginalized,"
as well as contemplative prayer as the foundation of the mission. The Holy Father
recalled to the leaders of the missionary group that it is Christ and his Spirit who
evangelize. He noted that we are collaborators, the statement continued, and "we will
be if we raise our hands in prayer and contemplate the face of Christ from a posture
of adoration." The Bishop of Rome also mentioned a topic that has been under discussion
during the general assembly: the formation of priests and men and women religious.
The prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, Cardinal Ivan Días,
who delivered the message of the Holy Father, affirmed during the assembly that the
most urgent need regarding formation is being able to "count on people who are formed
and mature in the faith."