Mission of Korea's Catholics to build a pro-life society
During the homily which closed the Korean Eucharistic Congress, the Archbishop of Seoul called on all to "safeguard and protect" the value of life.
Seoul (AsiaNews/CBCK) The Eucharist, "the source of the Christian faith", reminds us of "the constant presence of our Lord among us and his command to love our neighbors". This was the thrust of the homily of the Seoul Archbishop, Mgr Nicholas Cheong Jinsuk, during Mass held to close the Korean Eucharistic Congress. "In the Eucharist, we can be united to Christ who brings us to salvation."
The Mass, concelebrated with Cardinal Stephen Kim Sou-hwan and priests from the diocese, took place in the Major Seminary of Seoul on 22 October. "Today, it is the mission of Catholic believers to build a society where everyone respects the value of life," Mgr Cheong said. "Therefore, our Archdiocese has established the 'Mystery of Life' fund of 10 million won (nearly eight million euros) for the purpose of supporting adult stem cell research.
"With this, we hope to alleviate the suffering of the sick, especially those with incurable diseases, and to contribute to the defense and promotion of the value of life." The Mass collection will go to this fund.
The vicar-general of the archdiocese, Fr Andrei Yeom Soo-jung, said: "It is very happy to celebrate this meaningful event here in the major seminary of Seoul, the cradle of the priestly formation which celebrates the 150th anniversary this year."
After the Mass, around 5,000 people who attended went for a Eucharistic procession through the streets of the capital.