.- Archbishop Mario Conti of Glasgow said the upcoming visit of Pope Benedict XVI to the United Kingdom, will be “a moment of grace” that will “bolster” the faith of Catholics in the region.
In a pastoral letter sent last Sunday, the archbishop encouraged the faithful to enthusiastically welcome the Holy Father's visit, which is an “immense privilege” for the Archdiocese of Glasgow.
“Such visits are a rare occurrence," he continued, noting that this is "only the second of a reigning pope in the long history of our country."
“We need the presence of Simon Peter to bolster our faith and give us new courage to face the difficulties and ease the pain which the Church and each one of us must necessarily encounter in an imperfect and ever changing world,” he added.
After thanking Scottish officials for the “remarkable enthusiasm in the making of the necessary arrangements for his reception,” Archbishop Conti underscored the need to spiritual prepare for the visit. For this purpose, he said, the archdiocese will begin a special month of preparation on August 15, the feast of the Assumption of Mary.
