“Spread God’s message of love throughout the world” Pope tells American Missionary Congress in Ecuador

(August13, 2008):- “Accept in your hearts the message of love and redemption of Our Lord and spread it throughout the world,” Pope Benedict XVI said in his message Wednesday to the Third American Congress being held in Quito, Ecuador from August 12-17. Greeting all the Cardinals, Bishops, priests, nuns and the catholic laity participating in the Congress, the Pope told them that the Lord will be the centre of their moments of prayer, study sessions, reflection and dialogue during the Congress,the theme of which is: - “America with Christ: listen, learn and announce”. He said “My special envoy to the Congress – Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez - the Archbishop of Santo Domingo, brings to you my spiritual closeness and joy, knowing we are united in the same thoughts and sentiments for the renewal of the ecclesial communities of America through conversion to the Lord Jesus.” The Pope told them that this Congress is strengthened by the powerful force of the Holy Spirit with his gifts and charisms to help the Church continue spreading the Good News of salvation to every person, especially to those who do not know Christ or perhaps have forgotten him.
Noting that the Congress will also be a solemn commencement of a continental mission, in which the Churches of Latin America and the Carribbean will intensify their work, so that the Lord is increasingly known, loved, followed and praised throughout the world, the Pope said it is a providential opportunity to listen again to Christ, who reminds us that we are his friends, and instructs us to remain in his love and not to conform to the dictates of the world.
Concluding his message, Pope Benedict urged them to share this treasure of God’s friendship with others, and to offer the balm of His love for the afflicted, the oppressed and those who are indifferent. He told them never to be discouraged but remember the words of Christ the Good Shepherd – “You have tribulation in the world, but have confidence that I have overcome the world”.