Rome, Italy, Sep 13, 2004 / 22:00 pm
Speaking to a group of bishops gathered in Rome this week, Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos, Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, said “in the midst of the dramatic divisions and injuries in the world” the Church is called to give a reason for the hope which she bears.
“In the midst of the dramatic and persistent divisions and wounds in the world, the Church is called, through her pastors, the Successors to the Apostles, to give a reason for the hope which she bears, announcing and giving witness to the saving Word of God, the Word of life, that gives peace and unity to men of every race and condition,” he said.
During the seminar promoted by the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, the Colombian cardinal explained the sacramental roots of the Munus docendi, the evangelical and missionary purpose of episcopal ministry, inculturation and interreligious dialogue.
“Christ is made present in us, the pastors visible to the eyes of the faithful, such that ‘in an eminent and visible way’ we carry on the role of Christ as teacher, shepherd and pontiff, and we act in his person,” Cardinal Castrillon said.