Benedict XVI speaks of the value pluralism of rites within the universal Church, stresses the role that small communities can play in society and highlights the importance of faith formation.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - The importance of faith formation even in the Indian reality was highlighted today by Benedict XVI when he received the group of bishops of the Syro-Malankara rite, received during their five-yearly visit "ad Limina Apostolorum”, during which he also spoke of the contribution that Christianity has made the development of culture in India.

The Pope began by emphasizing the value that the plurality of rites, lived in union with the universal Church. "All Catholic Bishops share a proper concern for faithfulness to Jesus Christ and are desirous of that unity which he willed for his disciples (cf. Jn 17:11), while preserving their legitimate diversity”.

"Due to its ancient roots and distinguished history,  - he then said - Christianity in India has long made its proper contribution to culture and society, and to its religious and spiritual expressions. It is through a determination to live the Gospel, “the power of God for salvation to every one who has faith” (Rom 1:16), that those whom you serve will make a more effective contribution to the entire body of Christ and to Indian society, to the benefit of all".

Benedict XVI then highlighted the importance of education in the faith "through programs of catechesis" and expressed his satisfaction for "the variety and number of programs put in place by the bishops. “Along with the celebration of the sacraments, such programmes will help ensure that those in your care will always be able to give an account of the hope which is theirs in Christ. Indeed, catechesis and spiritual development are among the most important challenges which pastors of souls face, and so I warmly encourage you to persevere along the path you have chosen as you seek to form your people in a deeper knowledge and love of the faith”.

Benedict XVI last remark was on small communities. "I note  - he said the particular challenges to many of your parishes in providing proper pastoral care and mutual support, especially when there is not always a parish priest at hand. And yet, smaller parishes, bearing in mind the social reality Christians face in the broader cultural context, present their own opportunities for truly fraternal upbuilding and assistance. Small Christian communities have often, as you know, given outstanding witness in the history of the Church."

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