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JANUARY 31

Holy Father asks consecrated people to make of their life a "song of praise to God"

Vatican City, 31 (NE) During his brief address before yesterday's Angelus prayer, Pope John Paul II invited consecrated people to "cross with confidence and hope the Holy Door", renewing the commitment to make of their life "a song of praise to the Holy Trinity". Recalling the Jubilee for Consecrated Life to be celebrated next February 2, the Pope invited Catholics throughout the world to spiritually join to the celebration.

"Your vocation is a gift for the Church!", said as well the Holy Father, referring to all the "brothers and sisters members of the diverse forms of consecrated life". From his window overlooking St. Peter's Square, he also encouraged them to be "examples of generosity in prayer" as well as in their service to others. "This is what we see fulfilled in Mary of Nazareth: her special union with the Word Incarnate makes of her the model of evangelic life".

"Consecrated men and women have always seen in the Blessed Virgin the mother of their vocation, noticing her maternal solicitude both in favorable as in difficult times", continued the Pontiff. After entrusting "to Mary her consecrated sons and daughters", the Pope finally prayed so that through the witness of consecrated people, humanity may discover "an effective help to walk in the new millennium according to God's Plan".

Founder of Church movement urges to make Christian life become daily life

Lima, 31 (NE) One of the largest auditoriums in the city of Lima (Peru) was not big enough to keep the 1,500 participants gathered on Saturday for the conference "The Lord Jesus and Christian Life," offered by Luis Fernando Figari, Founder of the Christian Life Movement (CLM). Hundreds of CLM members attended the conference that Figari gives yearly every January. This year the talk took place among the activities that the Movement is organizing within the framework of the Great Jubilee. CLM members from many places of Peru and the American continent were also present. During his intervention, the founder urged to a renewed conversion and a growing apostolic commitment, and called CLM members to welcome the invitation that the Holy Father has directly made to the CLM: to become "artisans of reconciliation".

Figari began his reflections emphasizing the celebration of the 2000th anniversary of the Lord's Incarnation, "central event of the history of man", with which "human history is divided in two: before and after the Incarnation of the Word." He stressed the decisive importance of Incarnation and of a reverent approach to this "sacred reality" that exceeds the human being and fills him with awe. He afterwards noted the reality of man being a "searcher of truth", condition that is "harmonized with divine Revelation, that is a loving manifestation of God's truth, who urges us to adhere to it." Nevertheless, he also noted that in many people there is an "opacity that yesterday as today is an obstacle to see and to listen." He then synthetically analyzed the biblical passage of the blind man that is cured by the Lord Jesus. "It is a fact," he added, "that in the year 2000 of our faith, and of the celebrations with which the Church wants to highlight the centrality of Jesus Christ in the life of human beings and history, this is an event that claims for conscience."

The founder of the CLM then reflected on some Biblical passages related to the history of salvation, recalling that "since the threshold of time, we discover human beings invited to communion," invited by God to "display himself, humanizing his surroundings and creating culture." Moreover, Figari recalled the reality of sin, and the fact and significance of Annunciation-Incarnation. "The Eternal Word has become man, he has assumed human nature in all but sin, in order to, from within humanity, redeem and reconcile all human beings. This event makes us put our eyes, once again, in the mystery of Annunciation-Incarnation, in the centrality of the Lord Jesus -true God and true man- and the awesome light that it sheds on man and his relationship to God. The Lord Jesus is the key to illuminate man's identity and mystery, and gives people strength to live their lives fully."

The founder later recalled that "through faith we acquire knowledge and also confess who is Christ." To approach the Lord, he stated, "to accept His Love, to open one's mind and heart, to establish a friendship with Him constitutes the vital flux of Christian life. The loving adherence to the Lord Jesus and in his Sacred Heart to the Father and the Holy Spirit, is the marrow of Christian Life." Christian life is not an abstract reality, he emphasized at the end of his conference, pointing out that it must express itself "in concrete actions that to be such must keep coherence with their contents and displays, with everything which is manifested in the Lord Jesus." Figari also emphasized that "a guide to live with coherence is the harmony with everything what the faith of the Church teaches".

Recalling the celebration of the Great Jubilee of the year 2000, Figari stated that the Holy Year is a "year of remission of sins and their punishment, it is a year of reconciliation". "The mystery of the Love of God that seals the New Alliance and creates a New Community," he added, "also invokes the reality of a new man, born again in the Lord Jesus through Baptism, a person that is consequent with this new identity based in love." "May the Virgin Mary, Mother of the Lord Jesus and ours - he concluded- obtain us that the loving consideration of Incarnation and all the mysteries of her Son guide us to enter into the dynamics of love that comes from the loving communion of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, making it life in our daily life". After his conference, the founder of the CLM encouraged those present to live a coherent Christian life and to welcome all the gifts of this Holy Year, proclaiming God from each one's own experience of encounter with the Lord Jesus.

Cardinal Rivera: catechists should be "full-time evangelizers"

Mexico City, 31 (NE) 30 thousand representatives of all the ethnic groups in Mexico met this weekend at the Basilica of Guadalupe in order to renew their faith and commitment to evangelize the people that live in the most remote communities of this country. Participants to the "Ecclesial Meeting for native Indian Catechists," organized by the Mexican Bishops' Conference (CEM) made an oath to the Blessed Mary in order to cultivate their Catholic faith and encourage family life and moral values.

In a message sent for the occasion, Pope John Paul II indicated that "he expects, that through a permanent formation, a solid preparation may be promoted among all catechists'," inviting them to live "in coherence with their Catholic faith and the moral teachings of the Church." He also exhorted participants to a renewed proclamation of the true human, moral and spirituals values so that, defending their identity, they not only exercise a right, but also the teachings of the Church through the coming generations.

On the other hand Cardinal Norberto Rivera, Archbishop of Mexico, pointed out that "the Gospel should not be contaminated with the desire of power, arrogance or avarice, nor should one permit that the illegitimate proselytism of groups of religious aspirations tear out the Catholic faith and break the relations of fidelity of obedience to Pope John Paul II." Calling those present to be "full-time evangelizers," he warned that evangelization will not take place if they do not change others beginning with one's innermost, neither would it be correct "if catholic identity was diluted, nor if justice were turned into equity".

Colombia: Archbishop of Medellin encourages new attempts for peace

Medellin, 31 (NE) After attending to the inauguration of Villa New Colombia in the region of Saint Vincent of Caguan, Colombia, Archbishop Alberto Giraldo of Medellin highlighted the agreement that is being achieved among the Colombian Government and the FARC guerilla group through the common agenda of negotiations that has been proposed. As the Prelate said in declarations to a local radio program in Colombia, the methodology of the agreed agenda is the most important advance in the current stage of the process for peace. After manifesting his support for the public audiences involving a greater participation of the Colombian people in the process, the Archbishop pointed out that to "solve the internal conflict is only a part in the process for the achievement of peace. That is why we have repeated the expression 'culture of peace', as the Pope in his messages of the new year has recalled."

Italian Cardinal requests adhesion to Christ to Catholic journalists

Rome, 31 (NE) Adhesion to Christ as well as informing with truthfulness was the invitation recently made by Cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi, Archbishop of Genoa, to Catholics involved in the world of journalism. As the Italian Cardinal pointed out, recognizing the problem, denouncing it, and always living in adhesion to the Lord are the three stages through which Catholic journalists should act. "The great news -he affirmed- is the Lord that responds to all questions." In the same way, the Archbishop of Genoa invited the Catholic journalists to a scrupulous verification of the information that they offer to the people.

JANUARY 29

"Religious relativism" that equals religions is not acceptable, states Holy Father

Vatican City, 29 (NE) Addressing a group of members of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, gathered for their General Session, Pope John Paul II stated that "a religious relativism which leads people to hold that one religion equals another" is not acceptable. The Pontiff noted that he "who considers that the Church is a way to salvation equal to other religions" is mistaken.

During his address, the Holy Father reflected on "the oneness and saving universality of Christ and of the Church," and recalled that "in recent years, in certain theological and Church environments a mentality has emerged that tends to relativize the revelation of Christ as the one and universal mediation for salvation, as well as to redimension the Church's need for Christ as a universal sacrament of salvation."

"To remedy this relativistic mentality the definitive and complete nature of the revelation of Christ must be reiterated," stated the Holy Father. He then noted that "the thesis concerning the limited nature of Christ's revelation, which find its complement in other religions is therefore contrary to Christ's faith. In Jesus Christ is the full and complete revelation of the saving mystery of God," he added.

"Christ constituted his Church as a saving reality: as his Body, through which He Himself works in the history of salvation. As there is only one Christ, there is only on Body: 'one, holy, Catholic and apostolic Church.' The Pope also recalled that the II Vatican Council stated that non-Christians could attain eternal life "moved by grace" if they "seek God with sincere heart." But their situation is "lacking, if compared to that of those who, in the Church, have the fullness of the means of salvation."

USA: Week of Catholic Schools begins

Peoria, 29 (NE) The last edition of "The Catholic Post" informed that Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Peoria will join the 26th "Week of Catholic Schools" tomorrow, celebrated yearly across the United States to look for support for the more than 8200 Catholic Study Centers in the country. "Catholic Schools: Lightning the Way to the New Century" is the title of the celebration. Masses and prayer services will take place in a great number of schools. Social events and service projects have also been organized. The Week of Catholic Schools -that ends next Saturday, February 5-, will be an occasion to reflect on faith as a nucleus of Catholic education and also constitutes a special moment of renewal for teachers and students of Catholic Schools in the United States.

Philippines: Jubilee celebration begins with Congress and reflection on the Trinity

Manila, 29 (NE) A three-day congress to reflect on the mystery of the Trinity is one of the first activities of the Church in Philippines to celebrate the Great Jubilee of the year 2000. The "Marian Festival on the Holy Trinity" began last 27th of January and will finish today. It has included different conferences and reflections on the theme to which the year 2000 is dedicated.

The event began with a speech by the Apostolic Nuncio in Philippines, Antonio Franco. After it came a Eucharist presided by the Archbishop of Manila, Cardinal Jaime L. Sin. Cardinal Sin reflected on "The Trinity and History as the Third Millennium begins." There have also been moments of prayer and Eucharistic adoration during the days of the event. It has gathered Bishops from different parts of Philippines.

Today the congress will finish with a conference on the theme "Let's look Mary, Mother of the Lord, morning Star of the New Millennium, Patroness of our way towards the Trinity." During the conclusive ceremony the Holy Rosary will be prayed and different Marian devotions across the country will be remembered. At the end the Pope's delegate will preside a Eucharist celebration, followed by the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

Paraguayan youth renew their commitment with evangelization

Asuncion, 29 (NE) Young people from diverse dioceses of Paraguay will meet from the 3rd to the 6th of February in a Christian Youth Meeting that will be carried out in the city of Luque. The central theme of reflection will be the role of youth in the Church and in their country. "Their participation, solidarity and evangelization, will be themes of reflection during the retreats scheduled for those days," organizers of the event pointed out. The event -which expects to gather thousands of young people- aims to be for youth in Paraguay a time of "Christian, human and civic formation". 1,500 volunteers have been gathered in order to help in the organization of the event. The arrival of the pilgrims is scheduled for Thursday the 3rd of February.

Mexican Archdiocese organizes congress for teachers

Mexico City, 29 (NE) With the purpose of "deepening into the tasks of achieving an integral formation of the students," the Archdiocese of Yucatan will carry out an encounter of reflection and coexistence among representatives of approximately 35 schools of the city. The meeting will take place on the 16th of May. Organizers of the event informed that "the plan for the encounter is to carry out experiments of knowledge, reflections on values of educators, and on their presence before the student as examples of life, among other issues." Among the main goals of the encounter is to establish a course of action that will help "students respond to the different stages of life, in connection with the demands of keeping a Christian life." Another objective is "to awaken the teacher's conscience, to prevent them form mistaking their noble task as a mere question of labor, but rather as a service to society and to the Church," event organizers affirmed.

Spain: Bishops' Conference publishes "Book of the Pilgrim"

Madrid, 29 (NE) The Spanish Bishops' Conference has published a guide to help Catholics in Spain to participate with a greater depth into the spirit of the Great Jubilee. It is called the "Book of the Pilgrim," a guide for those who, on occasion of the Holy Year 2000, want to carry out a pilgrimage, to Rome, Holy Land, or to any of the Jubilee church specially designated in the every Spanish diocese. The small book offers some notes on the Great Jubilee of the year 2000, explaining as well the several celebrations that one can carry out throughout the year. The guides offered in each diocese contain a particular introduction for every circumscription.

JANUARY 28

Miracle attributed to intercession of Pope John XXIII approved

Vatican City, 28 (NE) Several decrees regarding canonization and beatification causes were promulgated yesterday in the Consistory Hall in Vatican City, in the presence of Pope John Paul II, members of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints and the postulators of the respective causes. Among the decrees read was the one approving the miracle attributed to Pope John XXIII' intercession, thus opening the path for his beatification.

One decree regarding a miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Katharine Mary Drexel, American, foundress of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament for Indians and Colored People (1858-1955) was read. It was also read the decree regarding the heroic virtue of Servant of God Francesco Saverio Seelos, German, priest of the Congregation of the Holy Redeemer (1819-1867). A decree regarding a miracle attributed to his intercession was also promulgated, opening the path for his beatification.

Three decrees regarding the martyrdom of the Servants of God Nicola Bunkerd Kitbamrung, Thai, diocesan priest, martyred for the faith in Thailand in 1944; Andrea, lay catechist, protomartyr of Vietnam, born c. 1625 or 1626, martyred for the faith in Vietnam in 1644; and Pietro Calungsod, Filippino, lay catechist, martyred for the faith in Guam in 1672, were read as well.

Finally, also approved were the decrees regarding miracles attributed to the intercession of Servants of God Columba (ne Joseph Marmion), Irish, priest of the Order of St. Benedict (1858-1923); Giorgio Preca, Maltese, diocesan priest and founder of the Society for Christian Doctrine (1880-1962); Maria Teresa Chiramel Mankidiyan, Indian, foundress of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family (1876-1926); and Marie Elizabeth Hesselblad, Swedish, foundress of the Order of the Most Holy Savior of St. Bridget (1870-1957).

Lent is time of conversion and reconciliation, states Holy Father

Vatican City, 28 (NE) "Lent of the Holy Year of the 2000 constitutes a favorable time per excellence, a day of salvation, a particularly appropriate occasion to reconcile ourselves with God," stated Pope John Paul II in his message for Lent made public yesterday. The Holy Father urges in this text, -specially in this liturgical time that will begin the 8th of March- to ask forgiveness for one's sins and their social manifestations.

The Pope states that "in the face of the darkness of sin and man's incapacity to free himself on his own, there appears in all its splendor the saving work of Christ." He then indicates that in this year the celebration of Lent, "a time of conversion and reconciliation, takes on a particular character, occurring as it does during the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000."

The Pope also urges to live the three theological virtues. He says "the path of conversion leads to reconciliation with God and to fullness of new life in Christ. A life of faith, hope and love." The Pope also stated that, living this virtues, "the believer faces the new millennium with no fear, he affronts the challenges and hopes of the future with the confident certitude that comes from the faith in the promise of the Lord."

Joy in Philadelphia for canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel

Philadelphia, 28 (NE) Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, presented yesterday in Bensalem, PA, the decree given at the Vatican approving the miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Katharine Drexel. "This means that our holy and selfless Philadelphia native will soon be declared a saint of the Roman Catholic Church," stated the Cardinal.

The Archbishop of Philadelphia announced this at the Mother House of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, the order founded by the Blessed in 1891. Katharine Drexel devoted her life to serving those most needy in the United States. "Miracles are always a sign that God is still with us," stated Cardinal Bevilacqua, who manifested his joy as Archbishop of Philadelphia to have another saint linked to his diocese, apart from Saint John Neumann, that is "the soon-to-be-called Saint Katharine Drexel."

Katharine was born in 1858 in the heart of one of the wealthiest and most notable families of Philadelphia. Very young she committed herself to the aid of the poor, especially blacks recently liberated from slavery. Her witness was a constant and uncomfortable testimony for many people. The premature death of her parents left her with an immense fortune, that added up to what would be about 250 million dollars today. Katharine understood that charity should always be accompanied by a Christian formation and human promotion.

The opportunity to give more concrete help presented itself when two missionaries that evangelized the Indians of Dakota requested the financing of schools for the natives. Katharine helped and committed herself to going to Rome in search for missionaries. In 1889, when she was 30 years old, Katharine decided to enter into religious life. Her decision constituted a "scandal" among the high society of the main cities of the eastern coast, attached to their vertiginous material growth, but indifferent to the great poor sectors that formed at the city's outskirts. Katharine added a private vow to her profession: "to be mother and servant of the black people and the Indians."

In 1891 she founded a new congregation, the sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, to serve her "most poor sons." A wise use of her money permitted her to build eleven schools for Indians in rural areas. But her greatest commitment was with Afro-Americans. In her long period as superior that ended in 1936 she inaugurated 100 schools in the fields and the ghettos of the Southern cities. Mother Drexel also founded the Xavier University of New Orleans, the first Catholic center of superior education dedicated to black people in the United States. Mother Katherine's beatification cause was introduced in 1964, nine years after her death. Pope John Paul II beatified her in 1988.

Archbishop of Rio concerned for attacks to Church from news media

Rio do Janiero, 28 (NE) With the purpose of "creating a critical spirit among Catholics" and stressing the need to "discern the truth and reject the error, correcting deformed points of view concerning the Church," Brazilian Cardinal Eugenio de Araujo Sales made public a recent article warning local faithful from the attacks and journalistic deformations that the Catholic Church suffers from several news media.

"I am impressed with the frequency of attacks that the Catholic Church is subjected to, the fragility of the accusations and their poor foundations, the readiness with which mass media discloses them without any discernment nor a careful critical spirit," the Archbishop of Rio affirmed. He also expressed his concern for the publication of news concerning the Church from a deformed point of view, in which "everything is judged from temporary approaches, completely lacking a transcendental perspective."

Later on, he warned also those who, being Catholics, "adopt a position contrary to the teachings of the Church," deforming rather than informing. Ignorance is another of the points highlighted in the Archbishop's message: "How can someone who ignores the elementary components of the Catholic religion interview or prepare a report that expresses the nature of the mission of that same Church?". Finally the Cardinal called for attention on those who judge facts concerning the life of the Church "upon the light of the modern mentality, separated from their context."

More confessionals in St. Peter's Basilica encourage reconciliation

Rome, 28 (NE) The "Braccio di Carlo Magno," located at the side of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, will be from today on a special place for pilgrims visiting Rome to live the spirit of the Jubilee Year. This place, where exhibitions and congresses are usually carried out, has been specially arranged for pilgrims who wish to live reconciliation. As ANSA news agency informed this week, two lines of confessionals have been placed along the famous corridor which reaches St. Peter's Basilica, in order to welcome those pilgrims from all over the world that want to live the Great Jubilee as a special moment of conversion and reconciliation. Along the days, priests from the Roman Curia will offer the sacrament of reconciliation, confessing pilgrims in several different languages. The large corridor has been especially conditioned for this initiative. Not only have numerous confessionals been placed, but also an area for prayer and meditation has been specially arranged.

JANUARY 27

Pope invites to discover the wonder of creation

Vatican City, 27 (NE) "The glory of the Trinity shines out in creation", recalled Pope John Paul II during his weekly catechesis held yesterday morning in the Paul VI Hall. The theme of the catechesis was "The glory of the Trinity in the creation". "In fact, it is possible to see, in the light of Revelation, how the creative act is associated with the 'Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change'," said the Pope, explaining God the Father's role in creation.

Pope John Paul II affirmed later that "in Holy Scripture, creation is often also linked to the divine Word which bursts forth and acts". Recalling the role of the Holy Spirit in creation, he said that "at other times…. Scripture highlights the role of the Spirit of God in the creative act. ...That same Spirit is symbolically represented in the breath of the mouth of God."

"Faced with the glory of the Trinity in creation, man must contemplate, sing out, rediscover his wonder. ... For believers, contemplating creation also comprehends listening to a message, hearing a paradoxical and silent voice," the Pontiff said. Finally, he recalled that nature "is a gospel that speaks to us of God."

Bishop calls US faithful to witness the Gospel in society

Arlington, 27 (NE) "This gathering is the first step in the pilgrimage which we are making as the Church in Arlington within the diocese during the Jubilee Year", said Bishop Paul S. Loverde of Arlington, during a homily given last Sunday at St. Mary Church in Alexandria, in the oldest parish in the State of Virginia. "The history and traditions of Catholicism in Virginia began here in 1795", recalled the Prelate.

Bishop Loverde highlighted the call to conversion made by the Lord, saying that "the call to conversion invites a response: an about-face, a turning towards the Lord, ultimately, a following of Jesus, imitating Christ, in a word, 'discipleship.'" "This following of Jesus, this imitation of Christ includes at least three essential ingredients: listening to the Word of God, in order to be formed in faith; praying to the Lord, in order to be transformed into Christ; and proclaiming Jesus as Lord and Saviour in order to witness to the Gospel," he further said.

After recalling several methods in order to be formed in faith, such as listening to the Word of the Gospel, read the words of the Pope, lives of the saints and their writings, and those of the Fathers of the Church, the Bishop of Arlington stressed the importance of personal prayer and sacramental life. "Finally" he said "we follow Christ by proclaiming Him as Lord and Saviour and this means witnessing to Him and to His Gospel".

"We begin today our diocesan pilgrimage as we celebrate this stational Mass and recommit ourselves to responding to the call to conversion by following Christ in listening to His Word, in praying both personally and liturgically and in witnessing to the Gospel both at home and in our contemporary society".

Church in Brazil prepares for commemoration of V Centenary of Evangelization

Rio de Janeiro, 27 (NE) Pope John Paul II has designated Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican State Secretary, as pontifical delegate for the celebrations on occasion of the V centenary of Evangelization in Brazil. Cardinal Sodano will fly to Brazil in April. The celebration will take place the 26th, at Santa Cruz de Cabralia, Porto Seguro, in the state of Bahia.

It was precisely in Santa Cruz de Cabralia at Porto Seguro where the first Mass in Brazilian lands was celebrated, the 26th of April of 1500. The event to be presided by Cardinal Sodano will begin activities for the celebration of the V centenary, which will continue during part of year 2001. As it was informed some months ago, Pope John Paul II will participate at the inaugural ceremony from the Vatican, turning on with a switch, thousands of kilometers away, the lights of the main Brazilian cathedrals.

Last year, as preparation for the celebrations of the 500 years of evangelization, some replicas of the original cross that was used during the first Eucharistic celebration visited all the Brazilian dioceses. They were 16 replicas of the original cross -kept in Braga, Portugal- given by the Portuguese bishops to the 16 ecclesiastic circumscriptions of Brazil.

In the framework of the commemoration of the V centenary of the announcement of faith in this country, Pope John Paul II will beatify 30 Brazilian martyrs killed in the XVII century. The Brazilian National Bishop's Conference (CNBB) informed that the celebration will take place the 5th of March of year 2000 at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican. They are 2 priests, Andrea Soveral and Francisco Ferro, and 28 lay men, killed by local inhabitants incited by Dutch Calvinists at the State of Rio Grande del Norte in 1645.

New evidence for apparitions of Virgin of Guadalupe taken to Rome

Mexico City, 27 (NE) A high relief witnessing the apparition of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico, which dates back to the XVI century, has been sent to Rome as further evidence for the cause of canonization of Blessed Juan Diego. The high relief was sculpted by a group of stone sculptors of Xochimilco, four months after the Virgin's apparition to Blessed Juan Diego on December 12, 1531. The work of art was donated as a gift for the Chapel of the Assumption, so it could be appreciated and would help evangelization, for this place was a necessary stop in the way to Acapulco. In the XIX century, the colonial temple of Assumption, built between 1529 and 1552, became the Cathedral of Cuernavaca.

The artwork shows God the Father crowning Blessed Mary, as a native girl. The "Guadalupana" -the Virgin's image as it appeared to Blessed Juan Diego- stands upon a half moon supported by four couples of angels. Two more angels are at each side, playing the trumpets, as a manifestation of joy. Specialists explain that the work is of European inspiration, but of Indian craftsmanship. Therefore it has the artistic traits of that age, and also a traditional Franciscan's seal: the rose.

Members of the Commission for the Cause of Canonization of Blessed Juan Diego have emphasized the value of this work. "The relief depicts the Virgin of Guadalupe. Each of the elements verifies that there is a tradition of Guadalupe, even by the type of rock with which it was elaborated. The style is well defined, eloquent and beautiful," they stated. After the historicity of the work was proved, the image was taken to Rome for further studies and as further evidence for the apparitions of the Virgin to Blessed Juan Diego.

Ecuador: Bishops' message urges to hope

Quito, 28 (NE) The bishops of Ecuador urged to hope and justice after the difficult events occurred in this country during the past days. In a message sent to the people of Ecuador, they expressed themselves against the unsuccessful coup d'état. They asked to leave that event "always behind" and urged those "who exercise functions in the government to give example and teach that diversity doesn't lead to fighting, but to complementation, in order to work for the common good."

Among different urgent tasks, the message emphasized the need to recover "the State's credibility." The Bishops stated that the "legitimate confrontation of ideas searches truth and good; when it is lowered to political cannibalism, this confrontation becomes corrupted in the search of personal or group interests". "We must take seriously the warning that this crisis leaves. We must act inspired by permanent convictions, not by transitory fear," they added, and emphasized that "justice must never be subordinated to economic and political power."

"Let's walk serenely towards a new administrative system, closer to the person, and therefore, more favorable to participation and co-responsibility," they further stated. The Bishops urged to fight corruption that wounds the country. At the conclusion, they expressed their hope that "those who have the responsibility to guide towards common good will know how to find the ways to answer the aspirations of the people from Ecuador."

"May Jesus, Lord of History, guide you and guide your steps… in order to achieve national reconciliation. Let's fear not, let's open the doors to Him who unites us in fraternity, Jesus, our Redeemer," they concluded.

JANUARY 26

Pope will thank gift of consecrated life during Mass

Vatican City, 26 (NE) Pope John Paul II will preside a solemn Eucharist in occasion of the fourth World Day for Consecrated Life. On Wednesday, February 2, feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, the Pope will celebrate a Mass to take place at St. Peter's Basilica at 10:00 local time. During the celebrations, the Pope will specially pray for the Institutes of Consecrated life and the Societies of Apostolic Life. Mass will be preceded by the blessing of candles and a procession. Following the Pope's homily, there will be thanksgiving to God for the gift of consecrated life. Cardinal Eduardo Martinez Somalo, Prefect for the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life will also be present. Members from different Institutes and Societies have been specially invited to the celebration.

Cardinal Ruini urges to adjust social models to human dignity

Rome, 26 (NE) Cardinal Ruini inaugurated this week the first session of the Permanent commission of the Italian Bishop's Conference. The Italian Cardinal, Vicar of the Holy Father for the diocese of Rome and President of the Italian Bishop's Conference, recalled several problems and challenges that the Church has to face in our time.

The Cardinal emphasized the importance and the evangelizing value of the activities that take place for the Great Jubilee. The Jubilee, he indicated, evidences that the Lord Jesus is the "bearer of a light and a hope capable of guiding humanity, which has entered a time of great changes and decisions of great transcendence."

Among the most evident problems of Italy, he mentioned the accelerated process of demographic decrease. This decrease in the numbers of births presents truly worrying characteristics in the entire country. Facts contradict what normally is thought and discussed: "In Italy, the places where fewer children are born are those who have better life conditions and social services," informed Cardinal Ruini.

Cardinal Ruini proposed the encouragement "of ideals and models of behavior according to man's dignity," to face the problems amplified by the destruction of family structures such as youth crime, drugs and street violence.

Miami's Archbishop Pastoral Letter calls to holiness during Jubilee

Miami, 26 (NE) "The Great Jubilee of the Year 2000" is the title of the last Pastoral Letter by Archbishop John. C. Favalora of Miami, written on occasion of the Holy Year. After a brief exposition of the history of the Jew and Christian Jubilees, Archbishop Favalora recalls that "for Christians the beginning of the Third Millennium is an opportunity to celebrate the mysterious love of God for His Creation, His sending his only Son to live within this creation."

The year 2000 is "more than just an historic achievement in time". It is the "commemoration of the accomplishment of our salvation by Jesus Christ our Redeemer," he stated. The Prelate emphasized that "this is a year to renew our faith in Christ," and to "renew our hope that God, through the Holy Spirit present within us, will renew the face of the Earth."

The Archbishop of Miami recalled the situation of a "world frequently confused by the distortion of truth" and that "continues darkened by the culture of death." He then explained that this "Great Jubilee gives us the opportunity to commit ourselves again to a greater sanctity of life." He presented a "very simple plan" that includes prayer, sacramental life and formation in faith, with the conscience that the "first step for an effective proclamation of the Gospel is the personal renewal of each of us." He also exhorted to a greater experience of charity and justice, and a greater work in the defense of life. "I beg you all, dear brothers and sisters, to take this Jubilee Year in serious, that is, to daily and fully receive Christ in your everyday life," concluded Archbishop Favalora.

Social Week in Costa Rica highlights value of family

San Jose, 26 (NE) In what will be one of the most important Jubilee events in Costa Rica with occasion of the Holy Year, the Archdiocese of San Jose is preparing a Social Week to be held with the theme "Family and Social Justice". The important event, the first of its kind in the archdiocese, is planned to take place in May of this year. Several Cardinals, members of the Pontifical Academy of Science and of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, as well as Costa Rican Bishops and rectors and university professors are expected to attend.

The Archdiocese of San Jose, welcoming the Pope's invitation made in "Ecclesia in America" to promote the study of the Social Doctrine of the Church, launched the event, in which "the harmonious development of society, of politics, of economy and the culture of the country will be developed in function of the authentic identity and the strengthening of the family."

Regarding the Social Week, Archbishop Roman Arrieta of San Jose pointed out that this "opportunity of reflection on the topic of the family in this year of the Jubilee seeks to direct our attention in order to identify those initiatives that go against family life. At the same time, it aims to encourage the Christian community and society in general to identify themselves with the project of the family life that the Church proposes to all men. Our prayer should be united as an offering to God, so that the fruits may be translated into healthy initiatives of life in Costa Rican society."

Archbishop of Madrid renews call against terrorism

Madrid, 26 (NE) The Archbishop of Madrid, Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco, renewed his strong rejection toward terrorism this week, inviting Spanish faithful to a campaign of prayer for peace in this country. After the terrorist attack a few days ago that caused the death of a Spanish military, Cardinal Rouco called to "a renewed and firm prayer against terrorism as a flagrant attack against the commandment of God: 'Thou shall not Kill' and against humanity; against that first and fundamental right of man, that is the right to life."

"It is necessary for people to understand that in any political community, and in a serious and urgent way in Spain, any violent action against life, any terrorist action, is to be condemned as a crime against the common well being of all, against humanity, and in no way profitable as an instrument of any type for social or political pressure," the Cardinal affirmed.

"The definitive abandonment of terrorism -he added- is a first and unquestionable moral premise in order to approach the treatment and solution of all political problems, what ever it may be, with the minimum of respect necessary to justice and to the common well being."

In his message to faithful, Cardinal Rouco invited as well to prayer. "Solidarity in prayer is not certainly the most spectacular, but indeed the most profound and effective," he pointed out. "No, we can not surrender in our effort of being instruments so that the grace of the Crucified Christ may touch the heart of the terrorists, may move their consciences so they may stop the killing, definitively. Everything is lost with hate; everything is won with love," he concluded.

JANUARY 25

Pope's Message for World Communications Day made public

Vatican City, 25 (NE) The Pope's message for the 34th World Communications Day was presented yesterday at the Holy See Press Office. The Day's theme is "Proclaiming Christ in the Media at the Dawn of the New Millennium". In his message, the Holy Father insists on the need for Catholic communicators that explicitly announce the Lord Jesus through the media.

The Pope began his message with a reference to the passage of Pentecost, where the Apostles, gathered around Mary, receive the Holy Spirit and begin to announce the Good News. Today, when "it goes without saying that circumstances have changed enormously in two millennia… the same need to proclaim Christ still exists." "Our duty to bear witness to the death and resurrection of Jesus and to his saving presence in our lives is as real and pressing as was the duty of the first disciples. We must tell the good news to all who are willing to listen".

The Pope also emphasized the need of Catholic communicators that are "bold and creative in developing new media and methods of proclamation." He also noted that "they should also seek out ways to speak explicitly of Jesus crucified and risen" and about his triumph over sin and death, in forms adequate to the means they use and the capacity of the public."

The message also criticizes the "indifference, even hostility to Christ and his message that exist in certain sectors of secular culture," frequently expressed in the means of social communication. To face this reality, the Pontiff indicates that "it is necessary certain 'conscience's exam' of the media".

Use of mass media for evangelization is vital, states Archbishop Foley

Vatican City, 25 (NE) "Proclaiming Christ in the Media at the Dawn of the New Millennium is not only substantial part of the evangelizing mission of the Church, it also constitutes a vital enrichment, inspired and full of hope for the message itself of the Communications Media", recalled Archbishop John Foley, President of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, as he presented the Pope's message for the World Communications Day of the year 2000.

Archbishop Foley explained that the message for this day, whose theme is "Proclaiming Christ in the Media at the Dawn of the New Millennium," is published on the feast of St. Francis of Sales, patron saint of journalists, "in accordance with the request of bishops and episcopal commissions for social communications throughout the world."

During the press conference two events that will take place during the Holy Year and are related to mass media were presented: The Journalists' Jubilee and the Performing Artists' Jubilee. The Journalist's Jubilee will take place from the 1st to the 4th of June. A Eucharist celebrated by the Pope will close the event. The Performing Artists' Jubilee will begin on the 15th of December and will finish on the 17th, with a mass celebrated at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls.

Washington: Americans march in favor of life

Washington, 25 (NE) Tens of thousands of people -most of them Roman Catholic- met in Washington D.C. yesterday to participate at "March for Life", an event that year after year reaffirms the opposition of a great number of Americans to policies in favor of abortion and that attack human life. The "March for Life" began near the White House, then went up Capitol Hill to the high court's building behind the Capitol. With signs, banners and prayers, demonstrators recalled the sad day of legalization of abortion in the United States, January 22, 1973, after the "Roe vs. Wade" decision that made the procedure legal, calling for a change in favor of life. Besides the March itself, in the past days different activities have been taking place in several US dioceses. Among them, on January 23, the U.S. bishops Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities organized a Mass at the Immaculate Conception's Basilica.

Miracle for Pope John XXIII' beatification approved

Rome, 25 (NE) The miracle needed for the beatification of Pope John XXIII has been approved, reported this week the Italian daily Il Messaggero. The Italian newspaper revealed, and Vatican sources have confirmed, that the Congregation for the Causes of Saints has approved a new series of decrees, including the official recognition of a miracle attributed to the intercession of Pope John XXIII. The approval will be made public on January 27, when 11 new decrees regarding candidates for canonization and beatification will be read in the presence of Pope John Paul II. In the last series of decrees from the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which were officially read last December 20, Pope John XXIII was recognized for his "heroic virtue". The recognition of the miracle would open tha path for the "Good Pope" to be raised to the altars. It is expected that his beatification will take place during the Holy Year.

Thailand: new Nuncio calls to "persevere in the faith and in mission"

Rome, 25 (NE) Several bishops, priests, religious and lay people gathered to officially welcome the new Apostolic Nuncio to Thailand, Archbishop Adriano Bernardini, at the brand new auditorium of St Louis Hospital in Bangkok. As Fides news agency reported, the Pope's representative was warmly received. In a brief address Bishop George Yoth Phimphisan of Udon Thani, also President of the Bishops' Conference of Thailand, welcomed the Nuncio to the "Land of smiles" re-affirming the deep desire of the local Church to continue to walk in communion with the universal Church. "For Thai Catholics, its is a honour and a great encouragement to have the Holy Father's representative here on Thai soil", said the Prelate. During his address, the new Nuncio in Thailand called Catholics in this land to "persevere in the faith and in mission, with a spirit of sharing, while being a minority in a Buddhist country". A delegation of Vietnamese Bishops also attended the ceremony. From a population of 60 millsion, approximately 250.000 are Catholics.

JANUARY 24

Pope encourages prayer meetings for the ill during Jubilee

Vatican City, 24 (NE) "It's almost a month since the beginning of the Jubilee, and there is a great ferment of spiritual and charitable initiatives in the Church," said Pope John Paul II yesterday, as he addressed pilgrims gathered at St. Peter's Square for the Angelus prayer. During his brief address the Pope specially recalled the initiative organized by the Pontifical Council for Pastoral Assistance to Health Care Workers, "which has promoted a series of prayer gatherings for the sick in Rome, at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore". These meetings, he recalled, will take place on the last Tuesdays of each month during the Jubilee year.

"The election of Santa Maria Maggiore as site for the encounters is meaningful: we will entrust the good result of the Jubilee and the spiritual and physical health of those who suffer to Mary's intercession. I urge those ill and those who assist them to have this initiative in mind and to be spiritually united from their homes or assistance centers."

During his greetings to Spanish-speaking pilgrims, Pope John Paul expressed his "deep pain" for the attack that killed a Spanish military some days ago in Madrid. "I ask the Lord," he said, "for the conversion of those who use or believe in terror to impose their ideas, and for the harmony of all citizens of the beloved Spanish people."

Archbishop Cipriani: "Reconciliation begins within the heart"

Lima, 24 (NE) "Reconciliation begins within the heart," recalled Archbishop Juan Luis Cipriani of Lima, during a radio interview transmitted nationwide last Saturday. Asked about how to live reconciliation during this Holy Year, the Archbishop stated that it is necessary to always make an "exercise of reconciliation", that "penetrates the soul, where one changes one's attitude."

He also recalled that "forgiveness is neither a sociological nor a political act, it is an act of the interior of the heart… Only Christ knows the person's soul, only He is capable of taking man's sin away and transforming his heart," he said. "Only when there is peace in one's heart, can one give peace to others," added the Prelate. He also emphasized the need to live reconciliation and then express it socially.

In order to solve the problem of different groups or sects that distort the teachings of the Church and misguide the people, it is necessary for Catholics to have a better knowledge of their faith, the Archbishop further stressed. "The Catechism of the Church is a very practical way to learn about what the Church is," he noted, and recalled the need to "say 'I believe' with one's actions."

Archbishop Cipriani also stated that "the Church must talk about God and Jesus Christ more frequently. It must be a statement, an announcement and a hope", with the conscience that one of her main challenges is to "teach the contents of the faith, but not only with words," but also with actions.

Archbishop of Chicago: defend life with truth and love

Chicago, 24 (NE) Cardinal Francis George, Archbishop of Chicago urged approximately 600 people attending the 9th annual Speak Out Illinois Conference to combine truth and love in their pro-life efforts. The event, which took place at the O'Hare Holiday Inn, gathered pro-life leaders from the State of Illinois. The Respect Life Office from the Archdiocese of Chicago was one of the organizers of the event.

Cardinal George emphasized the need to "learn from specialists," so we can offer sound facts and good arguments to others in the public debate. "There is something more that we have to take away today, something that completes the intellectual work on behalf of human life," said the Cardinal. He then read the inscription at the base of the statue of Mother Theresa of Calcutta: "Love is the reason I'm here." The Archbishop added, "we need both truth and love to be effective advocates for the sanctity of human life."

The Archbishop of Chicago urged attendants to speak "the truth clearly, again and again and again," and specially noted the importance of giving witness with one's own life, as Mother Theresa did, because that witness gives moral authority to proclaim the truth.

Christian Life Movement celebrates Jubilee 2000

Lima, 24 (NE) Within the frame of the Great Jubilee of the year 2000, the Christian Life Movement (CLM) is carrying out diverse activities in the city of Lima, Peru, country where this movement was born in 1985. Hundreds of members of the ecclesial movement have arrived from several Latin American countries as well as of from other Peruvian cities to participate in the courses of formation in the faith, spiritual days, eucharistic celebrations, artistic festivals and moments of sharing taking place these days.

Under the theme "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" the activities on occasion of the Jubilee began last Monday and will extend until end of the month. This week, conferences were given to CLM members by Bishop Jesus Moline, of Chiclayo and Bishop Francisco Simon Piorno, of Cajamarca. During his conference, Bishop Moliné, pointed out the human dimension of the Incarnation that leads us to consider the plenitude of man. "In Jesus Christ each man understands his vocation as a human being and undertakes the road to the realization of his personal being," he affirmed. Bishop Simon Piorno offered last Thursday a conference on "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

In December 1999, two hundred delegates of the Christian life Movement coming from the different countries in which the movement is present gathered in Rome to celebrate the I Plenary Assembly of the CLM. During the Assembly, the delegates were received by Pope John Paul II, who invited the members of the Movement to be "artisans of reconciliation."

Upcoming canonization encourages faith of Mexican people

Mexico City, 24 (NE) The town of Jalisco, Mexico, is living intense moments of joy and growth in its faith after the Holy See announced the canonization of Blessed Jose Maria Robles Hurtado, native of this city. Father Jose Maria was beatified in November 22, 1992 and could be canonized on May 21 this year, day dedicated to Mexico in the calendar of the Great Jubilee.

Born from a fervent Catholic family, Jose Maria was born on the 3rd of May of 1888. Thirteen years later he entered into the Seminary of Guadalajara, and was ordained priest at the age of 25. He was consecrated to the Sacred Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, and founded in 1918 the "Congregation of Victims of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus", dedicated to evangelization in the areas of health pastoral and education, assisting as well orphan houses and carrying out missionary work.

At the age of 39, during the religious persecution that took place against the Church in this country, while being a parish priest of Tecolotlan, Blessed Jose Maria was arrested by a group of soldiers, after presiding a Catholic celebration, which was prohibited. He was hanged the day after, after having blessed and forgiven his captors and executioners. Nowadays, the numbers of devotes of this Father founder and martyr of the faith is growing notably among the residents of the region and of all Mexico.

Archbishop requests conversion and peace for Nicaragua

Managua, 24 (NE) In declarations after yesterday's Sunday Mass, Cardinal Miguel Obando Bravo, Archbishop of Managua, invited Nicaraguan faithful to an authentic conversion and to encourage peace in the country. In the same way, he requested the government to carry out a greater attention for the people with fewer resources. In his words, the Cardinal called Nicaraguans to practice an "authentic conversion, a change from selfishness to love, from violence to peace... a change from the lacking of sincerity to the truth." "If this doesn't occur we can make pretty laws, but without the conversion of the heart of man those laws sooner or later become bad," he added. Regarding poverty in the country, Cardinal Obando affirmed the necessity of "making an effort so that we have education, health and housing, helping those without resources."

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