Vatican City, Feb 8, 2008 / 09:12 am
Bishops from Costa Rica visited with the Pope this morning at the Vatican and received a message of encouragement and challenge from Benedict XVI. The Pontiff called on the prelates to “constantly revitalize their ancient and deep Christian roots” and to guard against the risk letting Costa Ricans’ faith become “lethargic and superficial.”
In his first meeting with the Costa Rican bishops, Pope Benedict XVI spoke with them about the way that the South American country is experiencing profound and rapid change. This situation, he said, requires the seeking out of “new ways to announce Christ” and the emphasis of the “missionary character of all pastoral activity."
Amidst this constant change, "The people of Costa Rica must constantly revitalize their ancient and deep Christian roots, their vigorous popular religiosity, and the Marian piety they hold so dear, that these things may bring the fruits of a life worthy of the disciples of Jesus," he told the prelates.
The Pope also touched on some strengths of the Costa Rican Church. He pointed to the numerous priests "who are the bishop's main collaborators in his pastoral ministry," adding that they need "clear guidelines and criteria, constant formation, and support in the exercise of their ministry."