VATICAN CITY, NOV. 3, 2011 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is praying this month for an increase in knowledge of and esteem for the Eastern Catholic Churches.
The Apostleship of Prayer announced the intentions chosen by the Pope for this month.
His general intention is «that the Eastern Catholic Churches and their venerable traditions may be known and esteemed as a spiritual treasure for the whole Church.»
The Eastern Catholic Churches are in full communion with Rome. They originate in Eastern Europe, Asia or Africa and have their own liturgical and legal systems. The national or ethnic character of their regions of origin identifies these Churches. There are 22 Eastern Catholic Churches, and their members number worldwide between 16 million and 17 million.
The Pontiff’s mission intention is focused on Africa: «That the African continent may find strength in Christ to pursue justice and reconciliation as set forth by the Second Synod of African Bishops.»
Benedict XVI will be traveling to Benin in just over two weeks for a three-day apostolic trip.
