MESSAGE OF HIS HOINESS BENEDICT XVI
FOR THE 82ND WORLD MISSION SUNDAY 2008
“Servants and Apostles of Christ Jesusâ€
Dear Brothers and Sisters, “duc in altumâ€! Let us set sail in the vast sea of the world and, following Jesus’ invitation, let us cast our nets without fear, confident in his constant aid. St. Paul reminds us that to preach the Gospel is no reason to boast (cf. 1 Cor 9:16), but rather a duty and a joy. Dear brother Bishops, following Paul’s example, many of each one feel like, “a prisoner of Christ for the Gentiles†(Eph 3:1), knowing that you can count on the strength that comes to us from him in difficulties and trials. A Bishop is consecrated not only for his Diocese, but for the salvation of the World (cf. Encyclical Redemptoris Mission, n.63). Like the Apostle Paul, a Bishop is called to reach out to those who are far away and do not know Christ yet or have still not experienced his liberating love. A Bishop’s commitment is to make the whole diocesan community missionary by contributing willingly, according to the possibilities, to sending priests and laypersons to other Churches for the Evangelization service. In this way, the mission and gentles becomes the unifying and converging principle of its entire pastoral and charitable activity.
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