Urges Them to Foster Unity in Their Countries
VATICAN CITY, APRIL 30, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI participated in the extraordinary synod of the Syro-Catholic bishops, asking them to be an example of unity in the situations of violence and division in which they live.
This Syro-Catholic Church, united with Rome since 1662, is principally present in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Turkey, though members are found all over the world, particularly in the United States.
After his address at the synod on Saturday, the Pope lunched with the participants, including Patriarch Ignace Pierre VIII Abdel-Ahad of Antioch. On hand were also 13 bishops who represent the 150,000 Syro-Catholic faithful around the world.
The synod, which took place in the Vatican last Thursday to Saturday, was presided over by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, in the Holy Father's name.
In his remarks to the synod, the Holy Father said he wanted to gather them in Rome to "strengthen even more the bonds that have existed for centuries that unite your Church to the Apostolic See and, at the same time, to show you the esteem and solicitude that the Bishop of Rome has for each one of you, pastors of a part of God's people that is not numerous but is very ancient and meaningful."
Benedict XVI added: "In today's world, there are many challenges that Christian communities must face in every part of the world, while many dangers and traps risk clouding the values of the Gospel.
"In regard to your Church, the violence and conflicts that afflict a part of your flock are additional difficulties that endanger peaceful coexistence and peoples' lives."
Code: ZE07043003
Date: 2007-04-30