Pope Says Bishop of Rome Needs His Brothers

Pope Francis has written a message to Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops, saying that Monsignor Fabio Fabene, undersecretary of the synod, is being elevated to the episcopal order.

The message gave the Pope occasion to reflect on the importance of the Synod for the Petrine ministry.

The Pope wrote that almost 50 years have passed since the insitution of the Synod of Bishops. He said its necessity is more than ever before, to "revive the close bond with all the pastors of the Church."

Francis underscored his "wish to enhance the value of this valuable conciliar legacy."

"In this regard, there is no doubt that the Bishop of Rome needs the presence of his brother bishops, their counsel, their prudence and their experience," he wrote. "Therefore, I am most grateful to those who, with generous, diligent and competent work throughout these years, have ensured that the Synod contributes to the indispensable dialogue between Peter and his brethren."

Francis said, "I have decided to confer the dignity of episcopal rank to the undersecretary," in order to show the "valuable service that this organ carries out in promoting episcopal collegiality with the Bishop of Rome."

Pope Francis concluded his message, discussing undersecretary Monsignor Fabene's roles. He expressed that he will "reflect the affective and effective communion that is the main objective of the Synod of Bishops."

Francis' last remark was that in coordinating work within the secretariat general, the undersecretary will "be required to express the fertile and fruitful consequences of participation in the episcopal 'munus', a source of sanctification for those who surround it and the foundation of the hierarchical communion with the Bishop of Rome, and with the head and members of the episcopal college." (D.C.L.)