Pope to new bishops: Trust in the Gospel

Pope Benedict XVI received a group of bishops recently appointed to serve in mission territories on Friday. The bishops have been participating in a conference organized by the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples. In his remarks to the prelates, the Holy Father encouraged them to place their confidence in the Gospel, to its renewing power, its ability to reawaken consciences, encourage reconciliation and the building of brotherhood. Referring to young Church communities, especially those in Asia, Oceania, Africa and Latin America, the Holy Father said that, despite difficulties, there are positive signs such as the growth of the diocesan and religious clergy that serve as a counterweight to the reduction in the number of missionaries serving. The Holy Father noted the growth in the number of priests who leave the lands where they were born, being sent to serve outside their own Churches. “The young Churches,” said Pope Benedict, “constitute, therefore, a sign of hope for the future of the Church universal.” Listen to our report: