New decree strengthening ties between Holy See and Caritas Internationalis
The Holy See’s Secretariat of State has issued a new General Decree clarifying and
strengthening the ties between the Vatican and Caritas Internationalis, the confederation
of the world’s national Caritas agencies.
In its 61 years of existence, Caritas
Internationalis has always been a privileged instrument of the Church’s charitable
activity. In recent years, the Holy See has sought to update the juridical status
of the organization, in order the better to support its activity in the context of
the modern world.
In the General Decree published on Wednesday, the Secretariat
of State has clarified the role of the principal Vatican departments involved with
Caritas, most importantly the Pontifical Council Cor Unum.
“The Pontifical
Council promotes the identity and ecclesial spirit within the Confederation,” said
Cardinal Robert Sarah, the President of the Council Cor Unum. “In particular,
it must ensure that the activities of its members -coordinated internationally -
are carried out in collaboration and in communion with the local Churches, including
with the involvement of their pastors.”
The Decree establishes that at least
three members of the Executive Board be papal appointments, to underline the close
bond between Caritas Internationalis and the Holy Father. It also defines the Federation’s
relationship with the different sections of the Secretariat of State itself.
Cardinal
Sarah told Vatican Radio said the new norms will not change the fundamental mission
of Caritas.
“Caritas will continue to be an instrument of the Church at the
service of the Ministry of Charity, “ he said. “This is important, because Caritas
is an organization known and appreciated around the world.”