Philadelphia, Pa., Sep 19, 2009 / 08:52 am
Cardinal Justin Rigali and Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Harrisburg have issued a statement affirming their “strong support” for the “important work” of the Theology of the Body Institute, saying its founder Christopher West has a “charism” to popularize the work of Pope John Paul II.
The cardinal, who is Archbishop of Philadelphia, is chairman of the institute’s episcopal advisory board. Bishop Rhoades heads the diocese that West lives in.
Their August 10 statement, released on September 17, reported that West is in communication with them as his local ordinaries and has their blessing.
“We are convinced that John Paul II's Theology of the Body is a treasure for the Church, indeed a gift of the Holy Spirit for our time,” the two prelates wrote.