Benedict XVI also tells Taiwan’s bishops that they are “spiritually united” with their brethren on the mainland “whom I constantly hold in prayer.” In his address he stresses evangelisation, and care for families and migrants.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) – Catholics can be good citizens Benedict XVI said today in an indirect message to the government of China as he addressed the bishops of Taiwan on their quinquennial ‘ad limina’ visit to Rome. The bishops and the faithful in Taiwan, he said, are “a living sign that, in a justly ordered society, one need not fear to be a faithful Catholic and a good citizen.”

A reference to mainland China was also included in the papal speech to Taiwan’s prelates, placing it within the “pastoral responsibility” every bishop has, with the Pope, for the Universal Church. 

“In your case, [you have] a loving concern for Catholics on the mainland, whom I constantly hold in prayer,” he said. “I pray that as part of the great Chinese Catholic family, you will continue to be spiritually united with your brethren on the mainland.”

Undoubtedly, such words will have a pleasant ring for some in Beijing.

In celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Catholic evangelisation of the island, the Holy Father praised the bishops’ determination to promote “unity of mind and heart,” spread the “Gospel among non-believers” and train those who have already been initiated into the Church through baptism and confirmation.

The Pope also mentioned priestly training, which he said was “crucial” to “continually refocus on the meaning of their mission and embrace it with fidelity and generosity.”

Finally, Benedict XVI paid special attention to the care of families and migrants.

“Your deep concern for the good of families and society as a whole, my Brothers, moves you to assist couples in preserving the indissolubility of their marital promises. Never tire in promoting just civil legislation and policies that protect the sacredness of marriage. Safeguard this sacrament from all that can harm it, especially the deliberate taking of life in its most vulnerable stages.”

The Pope went on to say that he was pleased that Catholics and the Church are involved in “actively advocating laws and policies that protect the human rights of migrants.”

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