VATICAN CITY, JUNE 27, 2003 (Zenit.org).- The «mystery of Trinitarian Communion» is the model of reference for ecclesial communion, says John Paul II.
The Pope made that point today when he received participants in a congress promoted by the Italian National Federation of the Apostolic Union of the Clergy and representatives of the new Apostolic Union of Lay People.
The congress is reflecting on the theme «In Local Churches in the Way of Trinitarian Communion: Diocesan Spirituality Is Spirituality of Communion.»
John Paul II recalled that in the apostolic letter «Novo Millennio Ineunte» he wrote: «To make the Church the home and the school of communion: that is the great challenge facing us in the millennium which is now beginning.»
This involves «promoting a spirituality of communion» which requires «a radical conversion to Christ, docile openness to the action of the Holy Spirit, and a sincere acceptance of our brothers and sisters,» he added.
«The World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of the Clergy, which by happy coincidence is celebrated today, constitutes a propitious occasion to implore the Lord for the gift of holy and zealous ministers for his Church,» he said. Today is also the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
The Pope underlined that «in order to realize this ideal of sanctity all priests must follow the example of the divine Master.»
He noted that Opus Dei founder Josemaría Escrivá, «a saint of our times, writes that ‘the Lord uses us as torches, to make the light shine out. Much depends on us; if we respond many people will remain in darkness no longer, but will walk instead along paths that lead to eternal life.'»
«But, where do we light these torches of light and of sanctity if not in Jesus’ heart, inexhaustible font of love?» the Pope asked.
