Pope urges unity as he meets last group of Brazilian bishops

Monday’s Ad limina visit by bishops from Brazil’s Centre West Region marked an end to the cycle of meetings between Brazilian Bishops and Pope Benedict that began more than a year ago. In fact speaking to the group in the Clementine Hall, the Holy Father noted the happy coincidence in the fact that he addressed the first group on the National Day of Independence, while this last address was delivered on the anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic in Brazil.

He used this occasion to underline the importance of the Churches evangelisation in the “construction of Brazilian identity”, adding that “the current secularised society demands a renewed witness of life from Christians in the proclamation of the Gospel”.

The Pope also stressed the role of the country's Episcopal Conference, an organization that is preparing to celebrate its 60th anniversary. Pope Benedict said that “the first testimony that is expected of those who proclaim the Word of God is love for one another”.

"The bishops' conference - he added - promotes a unity of efforts and intentions”. However, it should not become a parallel reality or replacement of the ministry of each bishop. And he made clear that the bishops must first find the most effective ways to draw people closer to universal Church teaching. A focus on formation is needed to "meet new emerging issues." It is up to the bishops to direct "the conscience of mankind” to find a correct solution to the problems posed by new social and cultural transformations."

Pope Benedict called attention to the promotion and protection of faith and morals, care for vocations, a commitment to ecumenism, defense of human life and the sanctity of the family, the right of parents to educate their children and, again, religious freedom , peace and social justice. The Pope reiterated that the Episcopal conferences exist as "the driving force for the pastoral care of bishops, whose primary concern must be the salvation of souls."

The Holy Father concluded his address by assuring his affectionate closeness to the people of Brazil, entrusted to the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Aparecida.