A daily news service

MARCH 23

Pope presided Mass in Manger Square, Bethlehem

Vatican City, 23 (NE) "Bethlehem is at the center of my Jubilee pilgrimage," recalled Pope John Paul II yesterday, during the second day of his visit to Israel. Presiding a Mass at the Nativity Basilica in Manger Square, in Bethlehem, the Pope stated that "at the dawn of the new millennium, we are called to see more clearly that time has meaning because here Eternity entered history and remains with us for ever."

Earlier in the morning, the Pope had traveled by helicopter from Jerusalem to Al-Maghtas in the Jordan Valley near Jericho for a private visit to the nearby Greek Orthodox monastery dedicated to John the Baptist. There the Holy Father visited a site commemorating the baptism of Jesus. Afterwards, he traveled to Bethlehem, in the Autonomous Territories of the Palestinian National Authorities, where he was greeted by its chairman, Yasser Arafat. Patriarch Michel Sabbah, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Father Giovanni Battistelli, O.F.M, Franciscan Custos in Holy Land, were present among other religious authorities.

"No one can ignore how much the Palestinian people have had to suffer in recent decades. Your torment is before the eyes of the world. And it has gone on too long," said the Holy Father during his address to those present. The Pontiff also recalled that "the Holy See has always recognized that the Palestinian people have the natural right to a homeland, and the right to be able to live in peace and tranquillity with the other peoples of this area."

During the intense Eucharist celebration held moments after in Manger Square, the Pope said that "today from Manger Square, we cry out to every time and place, and to every person, "Peace be with you! Do not be afraid!" He also encouraged Christians forced to leave the Holy Land because of the difficult conditions to "not be afraid to preserve your Christian presence and heritage in the very place where the Saviour was born".

Holy Father expresses solidarity to Palestinian refugees

Vatican City, 23 (NE) Pope John Paul II visited yesterday afternoon the Basil Boys School at the Deheish Refugee Camp at the outskirts of Bethlehem, a Palestinian refugee camp that has been in existence since 1948. During his visit, the Pope expressed his solidarity and closeness to the refugees, calling the international community to give the necessary help to reach a just and dignified solution.

The Pope had especially warm words to Palestinian youth, encouraging them to overcome the difficulties owed to their condition of refugees. "The Church, through her social and charitable organizations, will continue to be at your side and to plead your cause before the world," the Holy Father finally assured those present.

Some hours before, following lunch at the Franciscan-run house for pilgrims, the Pope departed for a private visit to the Basilica and Grotto of the Nativity on Manger Square where he celebrated Mass this morning. The very first Basilica of the Nativity was built by the Christian emperor, Constantine, in 326. The basilica was spared damage in ensuing centuries during the Arab occupation and regained its original splendor during the time of the Crusades.

On both sides of the Greek choir in the basilica are the two entrances to the Grotto of the Nativity. The bronze doors and marble portals date from the era of the crusades. The apse covers the Altar of the Nativity, under which there is a marble slab with a silver star and the Latin inscription: "Hic de Virgine Maria Jesus Christus natus est" (Here Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary). To the right of the Altar of the Nativity is the Grotto of the Magi where Catholic Masses are celebrated.

Latin Patriarch recalls need of just solution for Jerusalem

Rome, 23 (NE) During a press conference held on Tuesday, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Michel Sabbah reaffirmed the need of a fair solution for Jerusalem. In the framework of Pope John Paul II's visit to the Holy Land, the Patriarch recalled the Pontiff's call for a just solution for the Holy City. "Freedom of religion is not enough (…) Two peoples live in Jerusalem and the Pope has already said that it is necessary to reach a special legislation for this city where two peoples live," stated Patriarch Sabbah.

Last February the Holy See and the Organization for the Palestine Liberation signed an agreement that regulates some juridical aspects relative to the presence and activity of the Catholic Church in the territories dependent of the National Palestine Authority. This agreement, similar to the one reached some years ago with the state of Israel, emphasizes, among other things, the need of a just and fair solution for Jerusalem.

In several opportunities the Church in the Holy Land has urged to reach a special status, internationally guaranteed, for the city of Jerusalem, to ensure that the communities that belong to the three monotheistic religions have equal freedom of conscience and of religious practice, equal freedom of access to the holy places and equal opportunities of development in the region.

Celebration emphasizes synthesis of faith and culture in popular Peruvian art

Lima, 23 (NE) Within the framework of the feast of St. Joseph, the Jubilee of the artisans was celebrated in the Cathedral of Lima with a Mass presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Alberto Brazzini of Lima. During the celebration, attended by numerous and important artisans from different parts of Peru, the traditional "Apu yaya Jesucristo" and other Quechua songs were interpreted, eloquent testimony of the deep roots that the Gospel has in Peruvian lands.

Bishop Brazzini emphasized during his homily the laudable work of the artisans in Peru, who with their art are an authentic "witness of the Peruvian identity." The Prelate stressed that the Peruvian popular art, with roots in the pre columbine cultures, and opening to the inspiration of the Gospel brought by Christian faith to America, represents "a harmonic and precious synthesis between faith and culture of our people."

The Bishop then emphasized the especial presence of the Lord Jesus in Peruvian popular art and encouraged the artisans present to keep displaying this "great means of evangelization." After the Eucharist, an exposition of popular art was inaugurated in the Museum of the Cathedral, with works of great value belonging to the museum of the Riva Agüero Institute.

Holy See gives approval to open beatification process for Dorothy Day

New York, 23 (NE) "It is with great joy that I announce the approval of the Holy See for the Archdiocese of New York to open the Cause for the Beatification and Canonization of Dorothy Day." Cardinal John O'Connor, Archbishop of New York opened with these words his traditional weekly column at the "Catholic New York." On this occasion he dedicated the column to the cause of the now Servant of God Dorothy Day, born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 8, 1897. She dedicated to journalism during her youth. After her conversion she began in May 1933, when society suffered the consequences of the economic "Great Depression" in the United States, the publication of the "Catholic Worker", newspaper that would reach great diffusion, as well as a movement of social assistance for the most needy. Dedicated to the cause of peace in the world and defense of life, Dorothy Day founded one of the largest organizations of social assistance in the United States. Quoting his letter to the Holy See asking for this approval, Cardinal O'Connor also stated that the life of Dorothy Day is an important model for the people of this new millennium.

MARCH 22

Pope continues pilgrimage to Holy Land in Jerusalem

Vatican City, 22 (NE) "Yesterday, from the heights of Mount Nebo I looked across the Jordan Valley to this blessed land. Today, it is with profound emotion that I set foot in the Land where God chose to 'pitch his tent', and made it possible for man to encounter him more directly." With these words at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport, Pope John Paul II began yesterday the second part of his pilgrimage to Holy Land.

Received by the Israeli President and the Prime minister, together with members of the diplomatic corps and religious and civil authorities, the Pope expressed his joy in making "a personal pilgrimage and the spiritual journey of the Bishop of Rome to the origins of our faith," visiting as well "some of the places more closely connected with the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ."

As he had done in Jordan, the Holy Father renewed his call to peace in the region. "We all know how urgent is the need for peace and justice, not for Israel alone but for the entire region," he said, calling the members of the different religions to "work for the peace and justice which the peoples of the Holy Land do not yet have, and for which they yearn so deeply."

Moments after the ceremony, the Holy Father was flown to Jerusalem via helicopter and had the opportunity for a panoramic view of the city. As the Holy Father landed, all the bells were ringing. Today, the Pope will preside today a Solemn Mass in Manger Square in front of the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem, and afterwards will visit the Deheisha Refugee Camp.

2.000 children make First Communion during Mass presided by Pope

Vatican City, 22 (NE) A 9 in the morning, Pope John Paul II presided yesterday a Eucharist celebration, during which 2000 boys received their First Communion. The Mass was celebrated at Amman stadium, in Jordan. "Jesus is your best friend; he knows what is in your hearts. Stay close to him, and in your prayers remember the Church and the Pope," said the Holy Father to the children making their First Holy Communion.

"The Successor of Peter is a pilgrim in this land blessed by the presence of Moses and Elijah, where Jesus himself taught and worked miracles, where the early Church bore witness in the lives of many saints and martyrs," recalled the Pope in his homily, during which he called lay people to "not be afraid to take your proper place and responsibility in the Church! Be brave witnesses to the Gospel in your families and in society!" "Build your future on the solid foundation of God's love, and remain ever united in Christ's Church!" said the Pope moments after to the young people present.

During the evening, Pope John Paul II traveled by helicopter to Wadi Al-Kharrar, a traditional baptismal site on the east bank of the Jordan River. There, in the presence of 2,000 people, the Pope presided a prayer service. After the prayer service, the Holy Father traveled by helicopter to Queen Alia Airport in Amman, Jordan, where following a farewell ceremony he departed for Tel Aviv, Israel.

Mexican Cardinal accompanies Pope in pilgrimage to Holy Land

Mexico City, 22 (NE) Cardinal Norberto Rivera, Archbishop of Mexico expressed his enthusiasm about accompanying Pope John Paul II during his pilgrimage to the Holy Land. This trip has great meaning, he stated, because it is "two thousand years since Christ was there, since the Son of God was born in this place; the Word of God was made flesh in Nazareth." During a ceremony held last weekend, the Mexican Cardinal also stated that "to accompany the Successor of Peter to the place where two thousand years ago the Lord said to the first Pope: You are Peter, and upon this rock I will edify my Church, is very moving." Cardinal Rivera departed to Jordan after making these declarations. He also spoke about the recent collective suicide in Uganda. He stated that "more than religious practices, [these are] deviations of religiosity… They are deviations of the religious practices, for when religion takes this fatal direction the essence of the union with God is lost, essence that is always in favor of life and respect for the dignity of the human person."

Spain: photo exhibit on the life of St. Edith Stein

Madrid, 22 (NE) The Hall of Culture of the Metropolitan Seminary of Seville, Spain, will hold an exhibit titled "Edith Stein, a life lived for truth," from March 24 to 30. The main events of Edith Stein's life, spirituality and spiritual work, as well as the difficult political and social environment during which Saint Theresa Benedicta lived until her transportation to the concentration camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau, where she was martyred, will be presented. Three conferences will also take place, to explain her life and work. Auxiliary Bishop Cesar Augusto Franco Martinez of Madrid will be present at the closing event.

Saint Theresa Benedicta, Carmelite contemplative religious woman, was a convert from Judaism. Pope John Paul II canonized her on October 11, 1998. She was born in Poland, within a Jewish family. Her adolescence and intellectual formation was marked by an incessant search for the meaning of existence. She distanced herself from God for some time, and considered herself atheistic. In 1922, when she was 31 years old, she experienced a process of conversion that made her join the Catholic Church.

Edith Stein continued in Germany her philosophical and teaching career, animated by her desire to join the important contemporary lines of thought to the Christian faith. At the beginning of the '30s she suffered the Nazi persecution for her Jewish ascendance. In 1933 she decided to enter the Carmelite monastery at Cologne. Her superiors sent her to Holland. After the Bishops of Holland denounced the abuses of Nazism, Edith Stein was one of the firsts deported to the concentration camp of Auschwitz, as part of reprisals.

During the canonization ceremony, Pope John Paul II stated that during our time truth is changed for the consensus of the majority, and stated that truth is presented as contrary to love or vice versa. "But truth and love need each other," he underlined on that occasion, and emphasized that the life of Theresa Benedicta was a witness of unity between love and truth. He called for the "new saint to become an example for us in our efforts in service of freedom and our search for truth".

Costa Rica: great devotion and celebrations for feast day of St. Joseph

San Jose, 22 (NE) Catholics in Costa Rica recalled Saint Joseph, whose liturgical feast is traditionally celebrated by the Church on March 19, with special devotion and enthusiasm. Their capital bears the name of the Chaste Spouse of Blessed Mary. Different authorities of the Church, the Mayor of San Jose, the Minister of Culture, and faithful from different parts of the country honored the memory of the Patron Saint of Costa Rica. Celebrations began with a mass presided over by Archbishop Roman Arrieta of San Jose. After the Eucharist a procession began, walking from the Metropolitan Cathedral up to the plaza of the church of La Soledad. Members of the municipal police also carried the image of "San Jose" and took him to his final destiny, where he was awaited by more than 100 musicians of the national bands from Alajuela, Heredia and San Jose. There they offered a concert of traditional music in honor of the Patron Saint.

MARCH 21

Holy Father begins pilgrimage to Holy Land in Jordan

Vatican City, 21 (NE) Continuing with his pilgrimage to the places related to the History of Salvation, Pope John Paul II arrived yesterday early in the afternoon in Amman, Jordan, in his 91st Apostolic trip outside Italy. The Pope's visit is also the second pilgrimage of a Successor of Peter to the Holy Land, after Pope Paul VI' pilgrimage in 1964.

The Pope landed at the "Queen Alia" international airport, where he was received by King Abdallah II of Jordan, Kink Hussein's son and successor. The Holy Father kissed soil from Jordan, as he has traditionally done upon arriving to a country. After hearing the welcoming words of King Abdallah, who called the Pontiff "a man of peace", Pope John Paul II addressed those present at the ceremony. "My visit to your country and the entire journey which I am beginning today" -said the Pope- "is part of the religious Jubilee Pilgrimage which I am making to commemorate the Two Thousandth Anniversary of the Birth of Jesus Christ."

The Pope also made an urgent call for peace. "In this area of the world there are gave and urgent issues of justice, of the rights of -peoples and nations, which have to be resolved for the good of all concerned and as a condition for lasting peace". "No matter how difficult, no matter how long, the process of seeking peace must continue. Without peace, there can be no authentic development for this region, no better life for its peoples, no brighter future for its children."

After the welcoming ceremony, Pope John Paul II made his pilgrimage to Mount Nebo, where, like Moses, he looked out over the Promised Land. Situated about 15 miles southwest of Amman, in the middle of the Jordan River valley, Mount Nebo is about 2500 feet high, and from the peak one can see far into the hills of Judea and Samaria, seeing Bethlehem, Jericho, the Dead Sea, and Jerusalem.

Pope's pilgrimage is "truly a historic visit", says Nuncio in Israel

Rome, 21 (NE) "This is truly a historic visit and everyone, Jews, Christians and Muslims know it. The Pope's personality makes the visit historical," stated Archbishop Pietro Sambi, moments before the beginning of Pope John Paul II' pilgrimage to Holy Land. In an interview published by Fides, the Nuncio in Israel recalled the situation of Christians in Holy Land, stressing the importance that the presence of the Pope will have for the local Church.

In Holy Land, "where the Church was born, Christians form a mere 2 percent of the population. They expect the Pope's visit to bring comfort, encouragement to be here and to stay here." "The Holy Father's visit" -the Nuncio further emphasized- " will help the local Christian community to strengthen its identity. They need to be comforted by the Church, by the Pope, to feel that their presence is valued. These Christians in the Holy Land represent Christians all over the world. They are important because they keep the faith alive in these places where our Redemption was won."

Archbishop Sambi also warned about the possible manipulations of the Pope's pilgrimage. "We have made every effort to underline the spiritual nature of the visit, trying at all costs to remove any political colouring. This is to allow the values, human, Christian, moral and values of civilization of which the Pope will speak, to be heard and to be received. The Holy Land was chosen by God to be the Land of the Message: here God revealed himself to mankind, and revealed also humanity's mission in life. The Pope's visit will help this land to be once again the Land of the Message for humanity, about to start a new millennium."

"To retrace the steps of Jesus -the Nuncio finally said- means to listen again to his teaching, encounter his spirit. It means becoming again disciples and starting out again as apostles in different parts of the world. To make a pilgrimage here, to walk where Jesus walked, is to realize the urgency of mission."

Peruvian Bishop highlights value of consecrated life

Lima, 21 (NE) During a Mass celebrated in Lima, Peru, presided by Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Durand Florez of Callao, five members of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a Society of Apostolic Life born in Latin America, made their perpetual profession, consecrating themselves for life to the service of the Lord. As he addressed the five new lay consecrated, Archbishop Durand emphasized the great meaning of self-donation to fulfill the divine plan for those who made their profession, "consecrating their life to God, through the hands of Mary."

The Prelate also stressed the need of a correct use of man's freedom to answer to God's call, expressing his concern for those who misuse this fundamental characteristic of the human being. Recalling that he had recently celebrated the 66th anniversary of his religious vows, Archbishop Durand said: "I have never regretted my vocation! It is a gift of God." After this personal testimony, he encouraged those consecrated to seek perfection in charity in the announcement of the Gospel and in fraternal life. He also exhorted the whole assembly to pray, and pointed out with intense emphasis to those consecrated: "Pray, pray, pray!"

The Sodalitium Christianae Vitae is a Society of Apostolic Life born in Latin America, approved by Pope John Paul II in 1997, gathering priests and lay people. It is currently present in many countries of Latin America and Europe, working with youth, in several works of solidarity with the poor and in the evangelization of culture. They also strongly support family and familiar life, and the defense of human life and dignity.

Mexican seminarians urge faithful to pray for vocations to priesthood

Mexico City, 20 (NE) Hundreds of seminarians from the Archdiocese of Guadalajara, Mexico, visited last week the different parishes and temples of the city during the annual fund collection for the maintenance of the seminary. During their visit, the seminarians urged faithful with their presence and words to intensify prayers for sacerdotal vocations and to encourage these vocations within families. The Diocesan Seminary of Guadalajara, which was founded 303 years ago, has St. Joseph as its Patron saint. The fund raising event took place precisely on the day in which the Church traditionally celebrates the feast of the Chaste Husband of the Virgin Mary. According to sources of the Diocese, the Major Seminary has 490 seminarians and the Minor Seminary 560. Between 25 and 35 priests are ordained yearly in this archdiocese.

MARCH 20

Pope invites artisans to encourage synthesis between faith and life

Vatican City, 20 (NE) Approximately 35 thousand artisans gathered yesterday at St. Peter's Square to celebrate with Pope John Paul II their Jubilee celebration. Several songs and lectures referring to St. Joseph, whose feast is traditionally celebrated on March 19, preceded the event. During his homily, the Pope told artisans that on many occasions they have "constructed great occasions of encounter among peoples", giving to humanity "magnificent synthesis between faith and culture". The Pope also highlighted the importance of St. Joseph, "Patron saint of the Church and protector of artisans", who is a "faithful custodian and prudent witness of the mystery of life of Nazareth" and also "icon of the wonderful synthesis between a life of faith and human work." The Family of Nazareth, the Pope further said, teaches us to find "the essential realities of life and to deepen in the significance of Jesus' life." During his homily, the Holy Father also recalled that the humble home of St. Joseph, the Blessed Virgin and the Lord Jesus teaches us to "overcome the apparent tension between contemplative and active life."

Holy Father calls faithful to be "men and women of hope"

Vatican City, 20 (NE) "Christ crucified and resurrected is our only and authentic hope," said Pope John Paul II on Saturday, during the closing ceremony of the spiritual retreat for the Roman Curia, held throughout the week. This year the spiritual exercises were given by Archbishop François Xavier Nguyên Van Thuân, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. Strengthened by the Lord's help, the Pope said, the disciples "become men and women of hope. Not of brief hopes, that afterwards leave the human heart tired and disappointed, but of an authentic hope, gift of God, sustained from above." "Today's world has an urgent need of this hope" the Pope further emphasized. "The Great Jubilee that we are celebrating drives us step by step to deepen in the reasons of our Christian hope, which demand and favor a growing trust in God and also an increasingly generous openness to our brothers."

EWTN to offer live coverage of Papal pilgrimage to Holy Land

Birmingham, 20 (NE) Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) announced on Friday the network's live coverage plans for the Papal visit to the Holy Land, which begins today March 20. As it was informed by EWTN, the live coverage of the historic Papal visit to the Holy Land will begin as the Holy Father arrives at Amman Airport in Jordan and travels to the Ancient Monastery of Mount Nebo, the land from which Moses saw the Promised Land. From there EWTN will provide the most extensive coverage as the Pope travels to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Nazareth. EWTN's global coverage will be available in both English and Spanish via television, radio, and can be accessed on EWTN's website at www.ewtn.com EWTN is America's largest religious cable network reaching over 58 million homes and is now available in Europe, Central and South America, and the Pacific Rim. EWTN's worldwide Catholic radio service, currently broadcasts 24 hours a day via WEWN shortwave to a potential listening audience of 600 million and via AM/FM to a potential listening audience of 160 million.

Cardinal Stafford presided funeral service for Cardinal Kung

Washington, 20 (NE) Circa 800 people gathered this weekend in Stamford, Connecticut, for the funeral service of Cardinal Ignatius Kung Pin-mei, "outstanding witness of communion with the universal Church and the Successor of Peter," as Pope John Paul II recalled last week in a telegram sent after the Chinese Cardinal's death. The ceremony was presided by Cardinal J. Francis Stafford, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity and Papal envoy for the occasion. Cardinal Stafford praised Cardinal Kung's "witness to the truth." He also recalled the former Bishop of Shanghai as a "noble son of China and of the Church." The ceremony took place on March 18 in the Saint John the Evangelist Church in Stamford, where the Cardinal lived his last years.

Mass in Rome celebrated for peace in Colombia

Rome, 20 (NE) As part of a series of celebrations to pray for peace in Colombia in different parts of the world and in several Colombian cities, a Eucharist celebration was held last week in Rome. The Mass took place in the Basilica of Sant'Andrea della Valle in the Eternal City, on the eve of March 16. Cardinal Alfonso Lopez Trujillo, President of the Pontifical Council for the Family, together with Cardinal Dario Castrillón Hoyos, Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy and Archbishop Pedro Rubiano Saenz of Bogota were present. 52 priests also participated in the Eucharist, during which attendants raised their prayers for peace and the ceasing of violence that has afflicted the South-American country for years. Also present were numerous members of the diplomatic corps before the Holy See of the majority of the Latin American countries. The Ambassador of Colombia before the Holy See, Guillermo Leon Escobar Herran, encouraged the celebration within the framework of a series of celebrations supported by the Colombian Bishop's Conference to pray for peace in many cities of Colombia and in the world.

Diocese of Newark encourages "reconciliation week-end"

Newark, 20 (NE) "God is really waiting for you in the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation." With these words, Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick of Newark exhorted the faithful of Newark to participate in the next "Reconciliation Week-end," which will take place during the first days of April and which has been prepared during the last months. "I listen to the priests who are taking the phone calls to answer questions about confession," said Archbishop McCarrick, and "for many of them, this has been a time of grace as so many men and women re-connect with the Church and with God and make the decision to find Him again during this weekend of Reconciliation." The expectation for the return of many Catholics that live apart from their faith makes this a strong moment of conversion. In the past months different dioceses of the United States have organized "Reconciliation weekends", during which faithful are encouraged to recur to the Sacrament of Penitence and to conversion.

MARCH 18

Papal pilgrimage to encourage peace in Holy Land

Vatican City, 18 (NE) Pope John Paul II' visit to Holy Land will be "above all a spiritual pilgrimage", said yesterday Holy See Press Office Director, Joaquin Navarro-Valls, during a briefing to journalists. Navarro-Valls explained a few changes and additions to the Pope's itinerary and highlighted the elements needed to understand this 91st foreign trip of the Holy Father's pontificate.

One addition to the Pope's itinerary, said the Vatican spokesman, occurs in Jordan where he will make a brief personal visit to Al-Maghtas (immersion, or pool) in the Jordan Valley near Jericho. Also, on Thursday, March 23, the Holy Father will concelebrate Mass with 12 bishops and the cardinals of the papal party in the Chapel of the Cenacle in Jerusalem, after which he will sign this year's Holy Thursday Letter to Priests. Navarro-Valls recalled as well the different meetings the Pope will have with local religious and political authorities to encourage peace in the Mid East. "The Pope will not present any political formulas, but he will help to create a climate that may find them," he explained.

Navarro-Valls underscored the importance of using the term "pilgrimage" to describe this trip to the Holy Land, as well as last month's papal trip to Egypt and Mount Sinai. This term, he stated, defines the very nature of the trip. The Holy See Press Office Director also explained that the Pope wishes this to be a pilgrimage to Biblical sites linked with the life of Jesus and a return, in a way, "to the roots of our faith." Finally, he commented that what cannot be overlooked is that this pilgrimage also includes a visit to the local Church, stressing the Mass to be celebrated on the Mount of Beatitudes as a singularly important event for Catholics in Holy Land.

Holy See concerned for European resolution affecting marriage

Vatican City, 18 (NE) The Pontifical Council for the Family issued yesterday a Declaration in response to a resolution approved by the European Parliament encouraging member-states to legally recognize "domestic partnerships", including same-sex marriage, with the same status as married couples. The Vatican dicastery stressed that the "resolution represents a grave and reiterated assault on family founded in marriage, as a union of love and life between a man and a women." In marriage, the statement further affirmed, "all society is solidly founded". To deny this "fundamental and elemental anthropological truth will lead to the destruction of the fabric of society." The official declaration explained as well that the resolution invites parliaments in member states to legislate in favor of "de facto" unions, but that it had "no authentic legislative authority," and need not be recognized by any nation. The resolution was approved with 251 votes in favor, 169 against and 13 abstentions. Many members of the European Parliament where not present during the session.

Arlington: Jubilee event celebrates incarnation of the Lord

Arlington, 18 (NE) The weekly magazine "Catholic Herald" informed that a special Jubilee celebration will take place in the Diocese of Arlington on March 25. Inviting all faithful of the diocese to participate, Bishop Paul S. Loverde of Arlington recently explained the meaning of the date, pointing out that "March 25 recalls the Incarnation of Jesus Christ, that moment in time when the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity was conceived in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary." This event "was the beginning of our salvation," recalled the Prelate. The aim of this diocesan celebration is to gather "as a diocesan family to give praise to God for the love He reveals in Jesus Christ and for the salvation offered us through His Dying and Rising," stated the Bishop of Arlington. "We will also pray that we may be strengthened even more in our daily efforts to evangelize, reconcile, unite and serve."

Catholics in Hong Kong urge Government to respect human rights

Rome, 18 (NE) The Diocese of Hong Kong has published a document urging Chinese authorities to put into consideration the denounces of violation of human rights in this country. The document was issued by the Commission for Diocesan Pastoral and was addressed to the Chinese president and the executive director of the region of Hong Kong. Attached to the document were hundreds of letters sent to the central government in Peking. "Following the message of the Gospel in this Jubilee year, we, a Christian community, strongly reject the Chinese government's violation of human rights," states the text. It also insists on the importance that the government "defends and respects the basic rights of all the country's citizens." The text recalls the demand for liberation of those who are in jail because of their faith or "for other unjustified reasons."

Canonization of Mexican Martyrs highlights faithfulness to the Church

Mexico City, 18 (NE) The General Postulator of Causes of Mexican Saints, Oscar Sanchez Barba, explained during a press conference held this week several aspects of the canonization of the 27 martyrs victims of the Mexican persecution at the beginning of the 20th century, to take place in Rome on May 21. Msgr. Sanchez Barba said that their canonization highlighted the "fidelity to priesthood, consecration and obedience to the Church" of these future 27 saints. He also recalled several aspects of the persecution that Mexican Catholics had to endure in 1920's when the government tried to control the Church. "The Church is not tied to the government, neither then, nor now," Msgr. Sanchez Barba said, emphasizing the need to recall that "the Church's government is in the spiritual field, not in the earthly one." Msgr. Sanchez Barba stated as well that it is not necessary for the Church in Mexico to ask "forgiveness" for that time, when Catholics fought to defend their faith. In those years the "people raised only to defend their faith." During the "revolucion cristera", he added, the Catholic Church in Mexico "was faithful to Rome; if she had not been faithful, then it would be necessary to ask forgiveness to the Church."

MARCH 17

Holy Land awaits Papal pilgrimage

Vatican City, 17 (NE) On March 20, Pope John Paul II will begin an historic pilgrimage to Holy Land, being the second Pontiff to visit the lands where Jesus lived. The first Pope to travel to Holy Land, as the Vatican Press Office recalled yesterday, was Pope Paul VI, who in 1964 traveled to Amman and Jerusalem. Pope John Paul II' apostolic pilgrimage will cover some of the principal stages of the history of salvation including Mt. Nebo, and the Jordan River, which became the symbol of the passage of all the baptized to a new life.

During this trip, the Pope will visit two states, Jordan and Israel, and go to the Palestinian Autonomous Territories. The term "Holy Land," as regards the hierarchy of the Catholic Church, embraces Cyprus, the West Bank, Jordan and Israel. Until 1929, the Holy Land was under the jurisdiction of the apostolic delegate in Syria who resided in Beirut, Lebanon. In March of that year, Pius XI decided that Palestine (which was then under British mandate) should become the responsibility of the pontifical representative in Cairo, Egypt, who had a residence in Jerusalem.

On February 11, 1948 Pius XII established the Apostolic Delegation in Jerusalem and Palestine, which covered Israel, Jordan and the island of Cyprus. Now, following the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Jordan on March 3, 1994, and between the Holy See and Israel on June 14, 1994, the apostolic delegation covers only Jerusalem and the Palestinian Autonomous Territories. At the present time there is an apostolic nunciature in Amman, Jordan, and another in Tel Aviv, Israel.

According to the Statistical Yearbook of the Church, Jordan is 88,946 square kilometers in size and has 6,300,000 inhabitants of whom 71,000 are Catholic. It has 2 ecclesiastical circumscriptions, 2 bishops, 75 priests and 260 religious. Israel is 20,700 square kilometers in area and numbers 5,970,000 people, of whom 107,000 are Catholic. There are 9 ecclesiastical circumscriptions, 11 bishops, 371 priests, and 1,217 religious.

Spain to celebrate "Day of the Seminary" on March 19

Madrid, 17 (NE) Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco, Archbishop of Madrid, sent a Pastoral Letter to Spanish faithful inviting them to give thanks to the Lord for vocations to priesthood. In his letter, on occasion of the Day of the Seminary to be celebrated on March 19 throughout Spain, Cardinal Rouco stressed as well the importance of the Eucharist. He specially called Catholics to "welcome and recognize the living presence of the Lord in the sacrament". The Archbishop of Madrid also recalled that priests "give their lives to represent Jesus Christ among his brothers, proclaiming the Gospel and celebrating the sacraments of the new alliance", stressing the importance that the Eucharist has in the life of faithful. He also expressed his concern because in several ambits, "general admitted opinions, certainly wrong, do not value vocations expressed in childhood or in youth." In relation to this, the Spanish Cardinal called parents, priests and Christian teachers to "look after with great care for the Christian formation of youth," giving the correct value to "the seeds of a priestly vocation that may flourish among children and teenagers."

Philadelphia Archbishop calls youth to stop "cycle of violence"

Philadelphia, 17 (NE) Gathered with about 500 seventh and eighth graders from 75 grade schools throughout the Archdiocese, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, called the students to commit themselves to stop the cycle of violence among today's youth. The Cardinal, who hosted a "Youth Forum on Violence for Elementary Students", recalled events in Michigan and Colorado, giving as well several statistics showing that violent crimes among adults have decreased 25 percent in recent years, while the same crimes among those under 18 have risen 165 percent. Jesus wants us to be "agents of peace," he said. "Peace is not the absence of violence. Peace is not the absence of war. Peace comes from within us." "Violence only creates more violence," Cardinal Bevilacqua further emphasized, as he answered questions from the students. "Even though you're young it continues on in your lifetime," he added. "You have to rise above that and stop the cycle of violence."

Jerusalem: "Via Dolorosa" restored in time for Papal visit

Rome, 17 (NE) Looking forward to Pope John Paul II' trip to Holy Land and his visit to Jerusalem, local authorities in the Holy City concluded the restoration and reparation of the famous "Via Dolorosa", which according to tradition was the route the Lord Jesus followed after being judged to the site of His crucifixion. The Via Dolorosa, followed every year by thousands of faithful from different parts of the world, has fourteen stations, in which pilgrims recall the chief scenes of Christ's sufferings and death. The last five of them are inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Although the project was not initiated for the papal trip, organizers were pleased to have it done just in time. Facades of buildings have been cleaned, the doors of stores have been painted and several other details have been bettered. Also in occasion of the Pope's visit, the major of Bethlehem announced that the City Council had decided that a street in that city will be named after Pope John Paul II. Bethlehem has already one street named in honor of a Pope: Thirty-six years ago, a street was name on honor of Pope Paul VI, during his visit to the Holy Land.

"Day of the Unborn Child" on March 25 in Argentina

Buenos Aires, 17 (NE) Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires recalled this week that the fight for defense of life is a fundamental demand of our present time. During a press conference at the end of the 125th Meeting of the Permanent Commission of Bishops, the Prelate stated that "we are harassed by a culture of death. Defense of life is not a religious nor a dogmatic option, but a natural right of human social life." Archbishop Bergoglio also commented that during the meeting of Bishops held in the past days defense of life was discussed, as a preparation for the next celebration of the "Day of the Unborn Child" that will take place in Argentina on March 25. Former President Carlos Menem instituted this celebration last year. It was warmly welcomed by the Argentinean faithful and extended to other countries in Latin America that joined to the initiative. "Not defending life in all its dimensions allows the expansion of the culture of death," stated Archbishop Bergoglio during the press conference, emphasizing that the fight "includes from the first moment of conception until the last breath."

Bishops coordinate activities for evangelization in Southeast Mexico

Mexico City, 17 (NE) For two days, Bishops from the Southeast Mexican region have gathered in Campeche to evaluate the work that each circumscription has been developing, designing new pastoral strategies and aims to encourage evangelization in the area. Bishops of Campeche, Tabasco, Yucatan and the Prelate of Cancun-Chetumal emphasized the similar characteristics of the culture and the problematic of the Mexican peninsula and expressed their desire to coordinate efforts for a more efficient proclamation of the Gospel. Archbishop Emilio Carlos Berlie of Yucatan noted that the priority of the Church in the Southeast is the intensification and better coordination of the evangelization work in that region. "Evangelization is a work that must be unceasing, continuous, reinforced day by day, because the people require it so, especially in this time," he emphasized.

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