FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO THE CHRISTIANS OF THE EAST

Let the Church keep showing concrete solidarity with the Holy Lands to enable the Christians of the East to “guard the Christian roots". This is the exhortation contained in the traditional letter to the bishops of the world, with which the Congregation for the Oriental Churches invites the universal Church to the “collection for the Holy Land” of Good Friday. The appeal, signed by card. Leonardo Sandri, who is prefect of such Congregation, “takes inspiration from Benedict XVI’s pilgrimage ‘in Jesus’ footsteps’ of last May. In powerfully emphasising the unceasing problem of emigration, His Holiness recalled that ‘there is room for everyone in the Holy Land!’. And He exhorted the authorities to support the Christians, but at the same time He ensured the Christians of that Land of the solidarity of the Church. Let’s do everything in our power, tirelessly, to ensure a future to the Christians there, where ‘the benevolence and humanity’ of Our God and Father appeared”. “The Pope – the Letter reads – entrusted the Congregation for the Oriental Churches with the task of keeping interest alive in that blessed Land. In His name, I urge everyone to confirm the solidarity that has been shown so far. The Christians of the East deserve the support of all the Church”.

© SIR - 8 march 2010