Rome, Italy, Nov 30, 2011 / 17:00 pm
As they prepare to head back to the United States, the bishops of New York are calling their visit to Rome and time with Pope Benedict a positive, encouraging and challenging experience.
The bishops wrapped up their trip by celebrating Mass Nov. 30 at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Pope’s cathedral.
“It’s been a very positive experience for us all,” said Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, the main celebrant at today’s Mass.
“To be with Pope Benedict at this time has been a special grace, his words to us were uplifting, they were challenging but by the same token they were also confirming,” he told CNA.
Bishop Murphy is one of 20 bishops from the Empire State who have been in Rome for the past week to discuss the health of their dioceses with Vatican officials and to meet with Pope Benedict XVI.
On Nov. 26, the Pope told them that “despite attempts to still the Church’s voice in the public square, many people of good will continue to look to her for wisdom, insight and sound guidance.”