Pope’s message to the French bishops

Vatican City, 07 Nov 2013: Pope Francis has warmly greeted the bishops of France on the occasion of their Plenary Assembly, held from 5 to 10 November in Lourdes. In his message to Georges Pontier, Archbishop of Marseille and the President of the Conference of Bishops of France, the Pope assured them of his fraternal prayers for the success of their work.

Supporting their concern for a solid formation of future priests, the Pope said that it should aim to prepare men of faith, deeply committed to Christ and to those who are entrusted to them. They are to be men who are not afraid to go to the men and women who do not yet know Jesus Christ.
In his message dated 24 October 2013, Pope Francis encouraged their specific contribution to major social issues France is facing. He asked them to continue their commitment to the service of man, especially the most neglected people.

That concern for the human person, explained the Pope, is also at the same time a strong testimony of God's mercy towards everyone! This requires that your diocesan communities remain in a permanent state of conversion to Christ in order to fulfill their mission of evangelization credible, reminded Pope Francis.
Concluding his message, Pope Francis expressed his appreciation to their commitment to the collegial exercise your episcopal ministry in communion with the Bishop of Rome, and their concern for the universal mission of the Church. He entrusted all the participants to the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette.Source: Sedoc