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Home , Congregation for Bishops, Daniele Libanori, Diocese of Rome, Georg Ratzinger, Mario Giordana, Regensburg Cathedral

Price € 1,00. Back issues € 2,00 L’O S S E RVATOR E ROMANO WEEKLY EDITION IN ENGLISH Unicuique suum Non praevalebunt

Fifty-third year, number 27 (2.654) Friday, 3 July 2020

The Holy Father celebrates Mass on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles A mid-year day’s reflection Unity and Prophecy Living in between risks and hopes

On Monday, 29 June, Solem- ANDREA MONDA nity of Saints Peter and Paul, Francis celebrated Mass The first half of this year 2020 is at the Altar of the Chair in passing, and perhaps it is a good ’s , where he moment to summarize, to collect blessed the Pallia that will be our thoughts. It may be that each bestowed upon the 54 Metro- year, at the end of the month of June, the community of L’Osser- politan appointed vatore Romano feels this passage over the past year. In his particularly, seeing that the first of homily the Holy Father reflec- July 1861 is the date recalled in ted on the themes of “unity” documents and by historians as and “p ro p h e c y ”, observing that the birth of this daily newspaper the source of unity is prayer and thus today too, “aged” 159 while “prophecy is born years, we feel like stopping the whenever we allow ourselves to flow of time for a moment in or- be challenged by God”. Due der to look in both directions, to Covid-19 restrictions, only a backwards and forwards, and try small number of faithful atten- to say something, take stock, in- ded the Mass, and unlike the dicate a perspective. If nothing else, to express our thanks. previous year, the Pope was We have arrived at this date unable to personally consign and it is not something to be the Pallia, which he symbolic- taken for granted, especially in a ally entrusted to Cardinal Gio- year such as this, which has vanni Battista Re, Dean of the already entered history as the year . In keep- of the coronavirus pandemic. ing with the practice estab- Hence today’s reflection will be lished years ago to emphasize completely focused, not on the the bond with the local long history of the newspaper — Churches, the actual imposi- we can postpone this until next tion of the Pallia will take year, a more “w e l l - ro u n d e d ” an- niversary — but rather on the place at the hand of the Ponti- shorter but far more intense peri- fical representative in the prel- od of this first semester of the ates’ of origin. The present year. Unfortunately a peri- Holy Father paused in prayer od harshly marked by the sign of before the Basilica’s bronze death, or rather, of the dead. Be- Statue of Saint Peter, which cause “death” risks becoming a was adorned for the occasion. CONTINUED ON PA G E 6 PAGE 4/5

The Holy Father sends a letter to Benedict XVI To Catholic Media Conference United to overcome Fr a n c i s ’ condolences racism and injustice for the death of

PAGE 3 Upon hearing the news of the death of Benedict XVI’s brother, Msgr G e o rg I also pray for you, Your Holi- Ratzinger, on Wednesday, 1 July, the Holy Father sent a letter of condolence to ness, invoking the Father through the Pope emeritus. The following is a translation of ’ w o rd s . the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, for the support of Christian Card. Ladaria to Br Stockman hope and tender divine consolation. To Euthanasia remains an Always united in faith in the Risen Benedict XVI Christ, source of hope and peace. Pope emeritus inadmissible act With filial and fraternal devotion You had the sensitivity to be the PAGE 7 first to inform me of the news of the FRANCIS death of your beloved brother, Msgr Georg. I wish to renew my deepest From the Vatican, 2 July 2020 sympathy and spiritual closeness to Sunday Angelus you in this moment of sorrow. I assure you of my prayers of Peaceful solution to the suffrage for your dear departed Papal events suspended one, so that the Lord of life, in his Syrian crisis merciful goodness, may welcome The Pope’s Wednesday Gene- him into heaven and grant him the ral Audiences are suspended PAGE 8 reward that awaits the faithful ser- for the entire month of July. SEE BIO GRAPHY ON PA G E 6 vants of the Gospel. page 2 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 3 July 2020, number 27

Bishop-elect Tito, 59, was born in Tabiteuea, Kiribati. He was or- dained a priest on 20 June 1987. He holds a diploma in education, a doc- VAT I C A N torate in theology with a specializa- tion in spirituality. Hawng from his office as of BULLETIN Lashio, Myanmar (24 June). The Holy Father accepted the resig- The Holy Father appointed Bishop nation of Bishop Louis Nzala Ki- Lucas Jeimphaung Dau Ze, SDB, as anza from his office as Bishop of AUDIENCES Amadiyah, to which it had been Bishop of Lashio Until now he has Popokabaka, Democratic Republic united on 10 June 2013 (27 June). of the Congo (29 June). Friday, 26 June served as Coadjutor of the said dio- The Synod of of the Patri- cese (24 June). The Holy Father appointed Fr Bern- Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, archal of Babylon for ard Marie Fansaka Biniama as Bish- Prefect of the Congregation for the Chaldeans has canonically elected as Bishop Jeimphaung Dau Ze, 57, was born in Hpa-Hping, Myanmar. op of Popokabaka. Until now he Evangelization of Peoples Bishop of the Eparchy of Zakho, Ir- has served as resident formator at aq, Chorbishop Felix (Saeed) Da- A member of the Society of Don Bishop , S J, titular the Saint Augustin interdiocesan wood Al Shabi, to which the Holy Bosco, he was ordained a priest on Bishop of Buruni, Auxiliary of the seminary of philosophy in Kalonda, Father has granted his consent (27 21 April 1996. He was ordained a of bishop on 29 January 2020, sub- Democratic Republic of the Congo June). (29 June). Prof. Andrea Riccardi, Founder of sequent to his appointment as coad- Bishop Dawood Al Shabi, 45, was the Sant’Egidio Community jutor Bishop of Lashio. Bishop-elect Fansaka Biniama, 61, born in Karemlesh, Iraq. He was or- was born in Misay, Democratic Re- Cardinal , Prefect dained a priest on 29 June 1998. In The Holy Father accepted the resig- public of the Congo. He was or- of the Congregation for Catholic 2007 he was appointed a chorbish- nation of Bishop Jean-Claude dained a priest on 21 February 1988. Education (for Educational Institu- op. He holds a degree in theology, Boulanger from his office as Bishop He studied philosophy and theology tions) and a licence in law. of Bayeux, France (27 June). and holds a doctorate in Biblical Jean-Marie Speich, titu- The Holy Father appointed Fr t h e o l o g y. lar Archbishop of Sulci, Apostolic Guadalupe Antonio Ruíz Urquín as CHANGES IN EP I S C O PAT E to Slovenia, with the office Bishop of the Territorial Pre- The Holy Father appointed Fr Mar- of Apostolic Delegate to Kosovo tin Hayes as Bishop of Kilmore, Ire- The Holy Father accepted the resig- lature of Huautla, Mexico. Until now he has served as head of per- land. Until now he has served as Saturday, 27 June nation of Bishop Luis Armando Tin- director of pastoral planning and de- eo Rivera from his office as Bishop manent formation of the clergy of Cardinal , PSS, Prefect this archdiocese (27 June). velopment in the Archdiocese of of the of Carora, Venezuela (23 June). Cashel and Emly (29 June). Bishop-elect Ruíz Urquín, 49, was Bishop Georg Bätzing of Limburg, The Holy Father accepted the resig- Bishop-elect Hayes, 60, was born nation of Archbishop Antonio J. born in Tapilula, Mexico. He was Federal Republic of , Pres- ordained a priest on 19 March 1997. in Two-Miles-Borris, Ireland. He Ledesma, S J, from his office as Met- ident of the German Episcopal Con- He holds a doctorate in theology. was ordained a priest on 10 June ference, with the Secretary General, ropolitan Archbishop of Cagayan de 1989. He holds a BS in Manufactur- Oro, Philippines (23 June). Fr Hans Langendörfer, SJ The Holy Father appointed Msgr ing Technology; he completed his The Holy Father appointed Bishop Gregory Charles Bennet as Bishop studies in philosophy and theology Cardinal , Prefect and obtained a licence in philo- of the Congregation for the Clergy José A. Cabantan as Metropolitan of Sale, Australia. Until now he has Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro. Un- served as priest of Saint s o p h y. H.E. Ms Agnès Avognon Adjaho, til now he has served as Bishop of Joseph’s, Melbourne, Australia (27 Ambassador of Benin, on her Malaybalay (23 June). June). The Holy Father appointed Fr John farewell visit Saw Gawdy as coadjutor Bishop of Archbishop Cabantan, 63, was Bishop-elect Bennet, 57, was born Taungngu, Myanmar. Until now he born in Lagonglong, Philippines. in Melbourne, Australia. He was or- has served as lecturer in the Saint OR I E N TA L CHURCHES He was ordained a priest on 30 dained a priest in 1992. He studied John Vianney interdiocesan Major April 1990. He was ordained a bish- pastoral counseling and holds a li- Seminary in Loikaw (29 June). His Beatitude Cardinal Louis op on 30 April 2010, subsequent to cence in spirituality. Raphaël Sako, of Babylon his appointment as Bishop of Bishop-elect Saw Gawdy, 64, was for Chaldeans, with the consent of M a l a y b a l a y. The Holy Father appointed Arch- born in the village of Domapholi, the Synod of Bishops of the Patri- bishop Francesco Massara of Myanmar. He was ordained a priest archal Church, has separated the The Holy Father accepted the resig- Camerino-San Severino Marche as on 9 April 1983. He belongs to the Eparchy of Zakho, Iraq, from that of nation of Bishop Philip Lasap Za Bishop of Fabriano-Matelica, , Kayan ethnic group, and to the joining the two Sees in persona Epis- Gheba tribe. He holds a degree in copi (27 June). biblical theology. Archbishop Massara, 54, was born The Holy Father appointed as auxil- in Tropea, Italy, He was ordained a iaries of the Metropolitan Arch- Extraordinary Commissioner appointed priest 17 April 1993. He was or- diocese of Kinshasa, Democratic Re- dained an archbishop on 6 October public of the Congo the following: Following the recent promulgation of the Motu Proprio “On transpar- 2018, subsequent to his appointment ency, control and competition in the procedures for awarding public con- — Fr Jean-Crispin Kimbeni Ki as Archbishop of Camerino-San Kanda, assigning him the titular tracts of the and Vatican City State”, the Holy Father, on 29 Severino Marche. of Dragonara. Until June, appointed Archbishop Mario Giordana, Apostolic Nuncio, as Ex- now he has served as of the traordinary Commissioner for the Fabric of Saint Peter, entrusting him The Holy Father accepted the resig- Congregation for the Evangelization with the task of updating the Statutes, clarifying the administration and nation of Bishop Paul Eusebius Mea of Peoples and parish administrator reorganizing the administrative and technical offices of the Fabric. A Kaiuea, MSC, from his office as Bish- of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo (29 commission will also assist in this delicate task. op of Tarawa and Nauru, Kiribati June). and Nauru (29 June). This decision also follows a report from the offices of the Auditor Gen- Bishop-elect Kimbeni Ki Kanda, eral, which led to, on 30 June, the acquisition of documents and electron- The Holy Father appointed Fr Koru 50, was born in Kinshasa, Demo- ic equipment at the technical and administrative offices of the Fabric of Tito as Bishop of Tarawa and cratic Republic of the Congo. He Saint Peter. This latter operation was authorized by decree of the Pro- Nauru. Until now he has served as was ordained a priest on 30 May moter of Justice of the , Gian Piero Milano, and the deputy, vicar general of the said Diocese (29 Alessandro Diddi, after informing the Secretariat of State. June). CONTINUED ON PA G E 3

ANDREA MONDA TIPO GRAFIA VAT I C A N A EDITRICE Subscription rates: Italy - Vatican: € 58.00; Europe: € 100.00 - US$ 148.00 £ 80.00; America, Africa, L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO L’OS S E R VAT O R E ROMANO Asia: € 110.00 - US$ 160.00 - £ 88.00; Oceania, North America: € 162.00 - £ 130.00. Editor-in-Chief Management Office: phone +390669899480; fax +390669885164; e-mail [email protected]. WEEKLY EDITION IN ENGLISH For India: The weekly English Edition of L'Osservatore Romano is published and distributed in Unicuique suum Non praevalebunt Photo Service Giuseppe Fiorentino [email protected] w w w. p h o t o .v a India by Carmel International Publishing House, Cotton Hill, Trivandrum- 695 014, Kerala-India; Assistant Editor phone: +91471327253, fax: +91471328191, 329934; e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]. For North America: L’Osservatore Romano (USPS 016-419) is published fifty times per year (weekly, except third week in Advertising Agency August and last week in December) by Our Sunday Visitor, L’Osservatore Romano, English Edition, 200 Noll Plaza, Vatican City Il Sole 24 Ore S.p.A. Editorial office Huntington, IN 46750. Periodicals Postage Pending at Huntington, IN, and additional mailing offices, USA – phone: redazione.inglese.or@sp c.va System Comunicazione Pubblicitaria via del Pellegrino, 00120 Vatican City Via Monte Rosa 91, 20149 Milano 800-348-2440 x2171; fax: 866-891-7390 – e-mail: [email protected]. w w w. o s s e r v a t o re ro m a n o .v a telephone +390669899300, fax +390669883675 s e g re t e r i a d i re z i o n e s y s t e m @ i l s o l e 2 4 o re . c o m POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Sunday Visitor, 200 Noll Plaza, Huntington, IN 46750 number 27, Friday, 3 July 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 3

Pope Francis’ Message to Members of the Catholic Press Association Catholic media united to overcome racism and injustice

In a message sent on Tuesday, 30 formation, and opening minds building bridges, defending life Cor 12:13). As in every body, it is June, to the Catholic Media and hearts to truth. and breaking down the walls, vis- often the members who are smal- Conference sponsored by the Catholic It was precisely this realization ible and invisible, that prevent sin- lest who, in the end, are those Press Association, the Holy Father that led to the establishment of cere dialogue and truthful com- most necessary. So it is with the calls for a commitment “to overcome the first Catholic newspapers in munication between individuals body of Christ. Each of us, the diseases of racism, injustice and your country and the constant en- and communities. We need media wherever we find ourselves, is indifference that disfigure the face couragement given them by the that can help people, especially called to contribute, through our of our common family”. The following C h u rc h ’s pastors. We see this in the young, to distinguish good profession of truth in love, to the is the English text of the Holy the case of the Charleston Catholic from evil, to develop sound judg- C h u rc h ’s growth to full maturity Fa t h e r ’s message. M i s c e l l a n y, launched in 1822 by ments based on a clear and un- in Christ (cf. Eph 4:15). Bishop John England and fol- biased presentation of the facts, Communication, we know, is lowed by so many other newspa- and to understand the importance not merely a matter of profession- To the Members of the Catholic pers and journals. Today, as much of working for justice, social con- al competence. A true communic- Press Association as ever, our communities [...] cord and respect for our common ator dedicates himself or herself count on newspapers, radio, TV home. We need men and women completely to the welfare of the This year, for the first time in its and social media to share, to com- of conviction who protect commu- others, at every level, from the life history, the Catholic Press Associ- municate, to inform and to unite. nication from all that would dis- of each individual to the life of ation is hosting a virtual Catholic the entire human family. We can- E pluribus unum — the ideal of tort it or bend it to other pur- Media Conference, due to the cur- not truly communicate unless we unity amid diversity, reflected in p oses. rent health situation. Before all become personally involved, un- the motto of the United States, I ask you, then, to be united else, I would like to express my less we can personally attest to the and a sign of unity among closeness to those who have been must also inspire the service you truth of the message we convey. yourselves. Media can be large or affected by the virus and to those offer to the common good. How All communication has its ulti- small, but in the Church these are who, even at the risk of their lives, urgently is this needed today, in mate source in the life of the tri- not the categories that count. In have worked and continue to work an age marked by conflicts and une God, who shares with us the polarization from which the Cath- the Church we have all been bap- in assisting our brothers and sis- richness of his divine life and calls olic community itself is not im- tized in the one Spirit and made ters in need. us in turn to communicate that mune. We need media capable of members of the one body (cf. 1 The theme you have chosen for treasure to others by our unity in this year’s Conference — To g e t h e r the service of his truth. While Apart — eloquently ex- Dear friends, I cordially invoke presses the sense of togetherness upon you and the work of your that emerged, paradoxically, from Conference an outpouring of the the experience of social distancing Holy Spirit’s gifts of wisdom, un- imposed by the pandemic. In my derstanding and good counsel. Message for last year’s World Only the gaze of the Spirit allows Communications Day, I reflected us not to close our eyes to those who suffer and to seek the true on how communication enables us good of all. Only with that gaze to be, as Saint Paul says, “mem- can we effectively work to over- Eph bers of one another” (cf. come the diseases of racism, in- 4:25), called to live in communion justice and indifference that disfig- within an ever expanding network ure the face of our common fam- of relationships. Because of the ily. Through your dedication and pandemic, all of us have come to daily work, may you help others appreciate this truth more fully. to contemplate situations and Indeed, the experience of these people with the eyes of the Spirit. past months has shown how es- Where our world all too readily sential is the mission of the com- speaks with adjectives and ad- munications media for bringing verbs, may Christian communicat- people together, shortening dis- ors speak with nouns that acknow- tances, providing necessary in- ledge and advance the quiet claims of truth and promote hu- man dignity. Where the world sees conflicts and divisions, may you look to the suffering and the poor, and give voice to the plea of our VAT I C A N BULLETIN brothers and sisters in need of mercy and understanding. CONTINUED FROM PA G E 2 See of Liberalia. Until now he has APOSTOLIC VI S I TAT O R Yesterday the Church celebrated served as of the Major Theo- the Solemnity of the Apostles 1999. He holds a degree in bioeth- logical Seminary of Kikwit (29 The Holy Father accepted the Peter and Paul. May the spirit of communion with the Bishop of ics and a doctorate in health pas- June). resignation of Bishop Jean Teyrouz Rome, which has always been a toral theology. from the office of Apostolic Visitat- Bishop-elect Ndaka Salabisala, hallmark of the Catholic press in — Fr Vincent Tshomba Shamba or for Armenian faithful resident in 47, was born in Popokabaka. He your countries, keep all of you Western Europe (27 June). Kotsho, assigning him the titular was ordained a priest on 9 Septem- united in faith and resistant to episcopal See of Oescus. Until now ber 2001. He holds a doctorate in The Holy Father appointed Bishop fleeting cultural fads that lack the he has served as parish priest of dogmatic theology and a degree in Elie Yéghiayan of the Eparchy of fragrance of evangelical truth. Let Saint Albert le Grand, diocesan Sainte-Croix-de-Paris, France, as us continue to pray together for chaplain of Justice and Peace, p s y c h o l o g y. Apostolic Visitator for Armenian reconciliation and peace in our member of the presbyteral council faithful resident in Western Europe world. I assure you of my support (29 June). and my prayers for you and your APOSTOLIC AD M I N I S T R AT O R (27 June). Bishop-elect Tshomba Shamba families. And I ask you, please, to Kotsho, 57, was born in Kinshasa. remember me in your own pray- The Holy Father appointed Arch- NECROLO GY ers. He was ordained a priest on 1 Au- bishop Grzegorz Ryś, Metropolitan gust 1990. He completed his stud- Archbishop of Łó dź,Poland, as From the Vatican, 30 June 2020 ies in philosophy and theology. Archbishop Jesús Armamento Apostolic Administrator sede plena Dosado, CM, Archbishop emeritus — Fr Charles Ndaka Salabisala, of the Diocese of Kalisz, Poland of Ozamiz, Philippines, at age 80 assigning him the titular episcopal (25 June). (23 June) number 27, Friday, 3 July 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 4/5

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul Dignity for all in Rome At the Angelus, the Pope spiritually ‘embraces’ Patriarch Bartholomew

The Holy Father celebrates Mass on the Solemnity of Rome’s Patron Saints May every person in Rome “live with dignity” and “encounter the joyful witness of arrange my life? Do I think only of the Gospel”. This was Pope Francis’ wish expressed after the recitation of the the needs of the moment or do I be- Angelus on Monday, 29 June, Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Rome’s two lieve that my true need is , who Unity and Prophecy Patron Saints. The following is a translation of the Holy Father’s reflection, which makes a gift of me? And how do I he delivered in Italian from the window of the overlooking Saint build life, on my abilities or on the Peter’s Square. living God?”. May Our Lady, who entrusted everything to God, help us The following is the English text of the fearing for his life. Yet at that tragic 2:1-3). “But this governor is…”, and to place him at the foundation of Holy Father’s homily on the Solemnity moment no one ran away, no one there are many adjectives. I will not Dear Brothers and Sisters, grace of life. Today’s Gospel passage every day, and may she intercede for of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles. thought about saving his own skin, mention them, because this is neither Good morning! shows us the very dialogue that us so that, with the grace of God, changes Peter’s life. He hears Jesus no one abandoned the others, but all the time nor the place to mention ad- Today we celebrate the patron saints we may make a gift of our life. ask him: “Who do you say I am?”. On the feast of the two Apostles of joined in prayer. From prayer they jectives that we hear directed against of Rome, the Apostles Peter and drew strength, from prayer came a those who govern. Let God judge And he answers, “You are the this City, I would like to share with Paul. And it is a gift to find After the Angelus, the Holy Father unity more powerful than any threat. them; let us pray for those who gov- Christ, the Son of the living God”. you two key words: unity and proph- ourselves praying here, near the continued: The text says that, “while Peter was ern! Let us pray: for they need pray- And Jesus continues, “Blessed are e c y. place where Peter died a martyr and kept in prison, the Church prayed er. This is a task that the Lord has is buried. However, today’s liturgy you, Simon son of Jonah” (Mt 16:16- Dear brothers and sisters, I first U n i t y. We celebrate together two fervently to God for him” (Ac t s 12:5). entrusted to us. Are we carrying it recalls an entirely different episode: 17). Jesus calls him “blessed”, that is, greet all the people of Rome and very different individuals: Peter, a Unity is the fruit of prayer, for prayer out? Or do we simply talk, abuse it tells us that several years earlier literally, h a p p y. You are happy for those who live in this City, on the fisherman who spent his days amid allows the Holy Spirit to intervene, and do nothing? God expects that Peter was freed from death. He had having said this. Let us take note: feast of its Patron Saints, the boats and nets, and Paul, a learned opening our hearts to hope, shorten- when we pray we will also be mind- been arrested, he was in prison, and Jesus says You are blessed to Peter, Apostles Peter and Paul. By their in- Pharisee who taught in synagogues. ing distances and holding us together ful of those who do not think as we fearing for his life, the Church who had said to Him, “You are the tercession, I pray that every person When they went forth on mission, at times of difficulty. do, those who have slammed the prayed unceasingly for him. Then an living God”. What, then, is the secret in Rome may live with dignity and Peter spoke to Jews, and Paul to pa- of a blessed life; what is the secret of Let us notice something else: at door in our face, those whom we angel came down to free him from may encounter the joyful witness of gans. And when their paths crossed, a happy life? Recognizing Jesus, but that dramatic moment, no one com- find it hard to forgive. Only prayer prison (cf. Acts 12:1-11). But years the Gospel. they could argue heatedly, as Paul is Jesus as the living God, not as a plained about Herod’s evil and his unlocks chains, as it did for Peter; later, too, when Peter was a prisoner On this occasion it is traditional unashamed to admit in one of his statue. Because it is not important to persecution. No one abused Herod — only prayer paves the way to unity. in Rome, the Church would cer- for a delegation from the Ecumeni- letters (cf. Gal 2:11). In short, they know that Jesus was great in history; and we are so accustomed to abuse Today we bless the pallia to be be- tainly have prayed. On that occa- cal of Constantinople to were two very different people, yet it is not so important to appreciate those who are in charge. It is point- stowed on the Dean of the College sion, however, his life was not come to Rome, but this year it is not they saw one another as brothers, as what he said or did; what matters is less, even tedious, for Christians to of Cardinals and the Metropolitan spared. Why was he first spared the possible due to the pandemic. happens in close-knit families where the place I give him in my life, the waste their time complaining about Archbishops named in the last year. trial, and then not? Therefore, I spiritually embrace my there may be frequent arguments but instrument of mine to carry my name we say: “being comfortable with God place I give to Jesus in my heart. It the world, about society, about The is a sign of the unity Because there is a path in Peter’s dear brother, Patriarch Bartholomew, unfailing love. Yet the closeness that before the Gentiles and kings and and the devil”, being comfortable is at that point that Simon hears everything that is not right. Com- between the sheep and the Shepherd life that can illuminate the path of in the hope that our reciprocal visits joined Peter and Paul did not come the sons of Israel” (Ac t s 9:15). Proph- with everyone —; no, this is not Jesus say: “you are Peter, and on plaints change nothing. Let us re- who, like Jesus, carries the sheep on our own. The Lord granted him may resume as soon as possible. from natural inclinations, but from ecy is born whenever we allow prophecy. We need the joy of the this rock I will build my church” ( v. member that complaining is the his shoulders, so as never to be sep- many graces and freed him from As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Lord. He did not command us to ourselves to be challenged by God, world to come. Not better pastoral 18). He was not called “ro c k ”, be- second door that closes us off from arated from it. Today too, in accord- evil: he does this with us too. In- Saint Peter and Saint Paul, I would like one another, but to love one an- not when we are concerned to keep plans that seem to have their own cause he was a solid and trustworthy the Holy Spirit, as I said on Pente- ance with a fine tradition, we are deed, often we go to him only in like to remember the many martyrs other. He is the one who unites us, everything quiet and under control. self-contained efficiency, as if they man. No, he will make many mis- cost Sunday. The first is narcissism, united in a particular way with the moments of need, to ask for help. who have been decapitated, burned without making us all alike. He Prophecy is not born from my were sacraments; efficient pastoral takes afterwards; he was not so reli- the second discouragement, the third Ecumenical Patriarchate of Con- But God sees farther and invites us alive and killed, especially in the unites us in our differences. thoughts, from my closed heart. It is plans, no. We need pastors who offer to go further, to seek not only his able, he will make many mistakes; pessimism. Narcissism makes you stantinople. Peter and Andrew were lovers of God time of the Emperor Nero, on this To day’s first reading brings us to born if we allow ourselves to be chal- their lives: . That is how gifts, but to seek him, who is the he will even reach the point of deny- look at yourself constantly in a mir- brothers, and, whenever possible, we lenged by God. When the Gospel Peter and Paul preached Jesus, as very land where you are now. This is the source of this unity. It relates Lord of all gifts; to entrust to him ing the Master. But he chose to ror; discouragement leads to com- exchange fraternal visits on our re- overturns certainties, prophecy arises. men in love with God. At his cruci- build his life on Jesus, the rock; not — the bloodstained land of our Christi- how the newly born Church was ex- not only our problems, but to en- plaining and pessimism to thinking spective feast days. We do so not Only someone who is open to God’s fixion, Peter did not think about as the text says — “on flesh and an brothers and sisters. Tomorrow periencing a moment of crisis: Herod trust our life to him. In this way he everything is dark and bleak. These only out of courtesy, but as a means surprises can become a prophet. And himself but about his Lord, and, con- blo o d”, thatis, on himself, on his we will commemorate them. was furious, a violent persecution can finally give us the greatest grace, three attitudes close the door to the of journeying together towards the there they are: Peter and Paul, sidering himself unworthy of dying abilities, but on Jesus (cf. v. 17), who I greet you, dear pilgrims present had broken out, and the Apostle that of giving our life. Yes, giving our Holy Spirit. Those Christians did not goal that the Lord points out to us: prophets who look to the future. like Jesus, asked to be crucified up- is the rock. Jesus is the the bedrock here: I see flags from Canada, James had been killed. And now life. The most important thing in cast blame; rather, they prayed. In that of full unity. We could not do so Peter is the first to proclaim that side down. Before his beheading, upon which Simon became rock. We Venezuela, Colombia and others…. Peter had been arrested. The com- life is to make a gift of one’s life. that community, no one said: “If today because of the difficulty of Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the Paul thought only of offering his life; can say the same of the Apostle Many greetings! May your visit to munity seemed headless, everyone travel due to the coronavirus, but And this is true for everyone: for Peter had been more careful, we living God” (Mt 16:16). Paul, who he wrote that he wanted to be parents to their children and for Paul, who gave himself completely the Tombs of the Apostles when I went to venerate the remains would not be in this situation”. No considers his impending death: “poured out like a libation” (2 Tim children to their elderly parents. to the Gospel, considering strengthen your faith and your wit- of Peter, in my heart I felt my be- one. Humanly speaking, there were “From now on there is laid up for me 4:6). That was prophecy. Not words. And here many elderly people come everything else to be worthless, so as ness. loved brother Bartholomew. They are reasons to criticize Peter, but no one the crown of righteousness, which That was prophecy, the prophecy to mind, who have been left alone to earn Christ. And I wish you all a happy feast here, with us. criticized him. They did not com- the Lord will award to me” (2 Tim that changed history. by their family, as if — I dare say — Today, before the Apostles, we day. Please, do not forget to pray for plain about Peter; they prayed for The second word is p ro p h e c y. Unity 4:8). Dear brothers and sisters, Jesus as if they were material to be dis- can ask ourselves: “And I, how do I me. Enjoy your lunch. Ar r i v e d e rc i . him. They did not talk about Peter and prophecy. The Apostles were chal- Today we need prophecy, but real prophesied to Peter: “You are Peter carded. And this is a tragedy of our behind his back; they talked to God. lenged by Jesus. Peter heard Jesus’ prophecy: not fast talkers who prom- and on this rock I will build my times: the loneliness of the elderly. We today can ask: “Are we protect- question: “Who do you say I am?” ise the impossible, but testimonies C h u rc h ”. There is a similar prophecy The life of children and grandchil- ing our unity, our unity in the (cf. Mt 16:15). At that moment he that the Gospel is possible. What is for us too. It is found in the last dren is not given as a gift to the eld- Church, with prayer? Are we praying realized that the Lord was not inter- needed are not miraculous shows. It book of the Bible, where Jesus prom- erly. Offering the gift of ourselves; for one another?” What would hap- ested in what others thought, but in makes me sad when I hear someone ises his faithful witnesses “a white those who are married and those pen if we prayed more and com- Pe t e r ’s personal decision to follow say, “We want a prophetic Church”. stone, on which a new name is writ- who are consecrated; it applies plained less, if we had a more tran- him. Paul’s life changed after a simil- All right. But what are you doing, so ten” (Rev 2:17). Just as the Lord everywhere, at home and at work, quil tongue? The same thing that ar challenge from Jesus: “Saul, Saul, that the Church can be prophetic? turned Simon into Peter, so he is and to whomever is close to us. God happened to Peter in prison: now as why do you persecute me?” (Ac t s We need lives that show the miracle calling each one of us, in order to wishes to make us grow in giving: then, so many closed doors would be 9:4). The Lord shook Paul to the of God’s love. Not forcefulness, but make us living stones with which to only in this way can we become opened, so many chains that bind core: more than just knocking him to forthrightness. Not palaver, but pray- build a renewed Church and a re- great. We grow if we give ourselves would be broken. We would be the ground on the road to Damascus, er. Not speeches, but service. Do you newed humanity. There are always to others. Let us look at Saint Peter: amazed, like the maid who saw Peter he shattered Paul’s illusion of being want a prophetic Church? Then start those who destroy unity and stifle he did not become a hero because at the gate and did not open it, but respectably religious. As a result, the serving and be quiet. Not theory, but prophecy, yet the Lord believes in us he was freed from prison, but be- ran inside, astonished by the joy of proud Saul turned into Paul, a name testimony. We are not to become and he asks you: “Do you want to be cause he gave his life here. His gift seeing Peter (cf. Ac t s 12:10-17). Let us that means “small”. These challenges rich, but rather to love the poor. We a builder of unity? Do you want to transformed a place of execution in- ask for the grace to be able to pray and reversals are followed by proph- are not to save up for ourselves, but be a prophet of my heaven on to the beautiful place of hope in for one another. Saint Paul urged ecies: “You are Peter, and on this to spend ourselves for others. To seek earth?” Brothers and sisters, let us be which we find ourselves. Christians to pray for everyone, espe- rock I will build my Church” (Mt not the approval of this world, of be- challenged by Jesus, and find the Here is what to ask of God: not cially those who govern (cf. 1 Tim 16:18); and, for Paul: “He is a chosen ing comfortable with everyone — h e re courage to say to him: “Yes, I do!” only the grace of the moment, but the page 6 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 3 July 2020, number 27 Living in between risks and hopes

CONTINUED FROM PA G E 1 gradual inclined plane that leads to um of the omnipotence of science example, in the parable of the weeds the numbness of that “sensor” which and technology were evils that were among the wheat. We are all like “topic” to talk about, since “we die”, is the conscience, so that we no already present in contemporary so- those zealous servants who are sur- but the dead, complete with names longer perceive its signal and we no ciety, a society in which the great prised to the point of indignation by and faces, are another thing: they longer react to its “symptoms”. isolation of people, especially of the presence of the weeds (of evil) in are people; they are stories. More Thus, evil often presents itself those most socially fragile, was the the field (in the world) and we than 30,000 people have died in without symptoms. It convinces us it predominant figure. By forcing us would like to go there with a Italy since the start of the pandemic is necessary to do something be- into merciless and painful isolation, hatchet and spade to uproot it all at and there is great fear of a return, a cause in reality it leads us to good Covid-19 simply exposed and once, with a sharp and definitive “reb ound”of the contagion. One of (our own). In the Gospel, Jesus of- brought out the real virus that grips cut. This is not God’s logic. The the most terrible aspects among all ten clashes with the mentality of — not since 2020 but always — the realistic logic of the One who cre- those tied to Covid-19, is what has those who believe they are okay, in heart of mankind: the selfishness of ated and loves the reality of the been said and often repeated in the right, of those who have reached those who live only “to hold onto world and of mankind is that of these weeks, that these people al- a level that is so dramatically their own life” rather than offer it for having and giving hope. God is not most always died alone, abandoned “asymptomatic” that the only pos- others. The asymptomatic sickness of a magician who resolves the prob- for reasons of “safety”. Death, which sible cure is a good shaking down to this virus was the great symptom lems and the evil in the world with is already the utmost experience of their roots. And then to awaken that stopped for a little while (and the wave of a magic wand. Good solitude, experienced in absolute them from “numbness”, he uses even let us hope that this break continues and evil are mixed together in the hermetic, aseptic isolation; the body, harsh and bitter words like “hyp o- and is fruitful) the mad rush to well- “field” of history which is a battle- notably absent. This is perhaps crites, whitewashed tombs, blind being in place of being, a forced field, filled with the wounded (this everyone’s greatest suffering, before guides...”. well-being, precisely of those who is where the Church’s task comes which it is difficult to find words, to Pope Francis has often preached kept telling themselves that from, being a hospital always open the point of seeming almost sense- in this sense, distinguishing between “everything is fine, I’m fine” without to those who suffer) and the war is less. Two other aspects of this partic- the sinner and the corrupt: the realizing what they were saying. open until the last day. Every now ular pandemic — which sadly is not former still has an active “sense” of and then people promise the coming so “particular” seeing that human sin, feels remorse for the ill he has The vaccine that isn’t of paradise in history. They point out to us the evil to be eradicated history can be read as a sequence of done — for him, the sickness is still A second aspect of this pandemic and they convince us that that “cut” more or less devastating epidemics symptomatic. Not so for the corrupt. that deserves rethinking is the fact will be the end of the presence of and plagues, and as the reaction that The latter has shut off, cut sensitive that there is no vaccine for this vir- evil in the world. All the paradises mankind has been able to organize nerves, no longer feels anything and us. Not in the sense that it will not promised on this earth have then re- in the course of recent millennia, un- is convinced he does good, that he be found, this is the hope to which vealed infernal faces, not only the doubtedly making great progress — practically corresponds to good it- all people address their prayers, re- political ones, borne of the great to- deserve room for a useful pause to self. A quote by the English writer gardless of their own personal jour- re f l e c t . C.S. Lewis comes to mind: “It talitarian ideologies, but also the ney of faith. We don’t know if a vac- lesser ones, like the “artificial” para- would be better to live under robber cine will be found, hence the pray- dises of drugs, not to mention the An asymptomatic sickness barons than under omnipotent mor- ers: maybe it will be like the one for “financial” ones, kingdoms of indif- al busybodies. The robber baron’s The first aspect relates to the fact the flu that we have to do over every ference and injustice. All asympto- cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cu- that Covid-19 often manifests the year, but which never completely matic “places”: the drug addict and pidity may at some point be sati- characteristic of an asymptomatic and with certainty eradicates the ef- the corrupt pursue their good and nature. It manifests as a-symptomat- ated; but those who torment us for fects of the disease; or perhaps it call things by the wrong name, hav- ic, that is, it manifests by not mani- our own good will torment us will be like HIV for which years later ing completely lost contact with the festing itself. It is a treacherous, un- without end for they do so with the there is still no vaccine but which in symptoms of the disease that envel- derhanded virus that insinuates itself approval of their own conscience. some way has been contained and ops them. into the organism (in the individual They may be more likely to go to channeled toward becoming a After all, it is like our computers. person and thus in the entire soci- Heaven yet at the same time likelier “c h ro n i c ” illness. These two ex- Every now and then, they are at- ety) without giving signs, without to make a Hell of earth”. amples lead to a reflection. The vac- tacked by viruses. At that point we anyone realizing it, through the sick Paradoxically this asymptomatic cine we imagine, that drug that call the technician who does not person who feels fine, who thinks he virus has developed a converse ef- comes along and radically and per- destroy or replace our computer, but is fine but in reality is sick. It is an fect. That is, it has revealed a situ- manently destroys the disease, does installs the antivirus for us, making interesting aspect if we apply it to ation that had already been con- not exist, cannot exist. For reasons the illness — or, better yet, the con- the moral and psychological dimen- firmed and consolidated for years; it that were disclosed earlier: the real flict — “c h ro n i c ”. The virus and anti- sion. In the Bible we read that the made us realize that, as the Pope virus is not Covid-19 but selfishness, virus must fight an everlasting battle evil one is a spirit who acts above all has said, we were already sick but the desperate desire to have, which to the end of days; for this reason by deceiving, using falsehood as a were unaware of it. In the evening supplants the sense of gratitude for too it is important to “up date”the weapon. That is, he makes it so the of 27 March, alone in Saint Peter’s being. Against this more profound antivirus every so often. And even person no longer calls things by Square, Francis said it clearly: our virus, no drug exists that magically more importantly, at the end of their name, but ends up calling what world was already sick. Injustice, in- destroys the contagion once and for every operation, to “save” the file we is bad “go o d”, and vice versa. Like a equality, abuse and waste, the deliri- all. Jesus spoke about it clearly, for have created. At the Angelus, the Pope spiritually ‘embraces’ Pa t r i a rc h Bartholomew. The exquisitely reli- gious language that surrounds our computerized and digital world re- The Bavarian prelate received his last visit from Benedict XVI at his home in veals a deeper meaning. Life is not a magic trick, but an honest, true, un- Georg Ratzinger, brother of the Pope emeritus, dies varnished game, which we must con- duct seriously and tenaciously, al- Georg Ratzinger, elder brother of the Pope emeritus, two brothers, and some 40 others, were ordained ways starting over from the begin- has died at the age of 96. He passed away in Regens- priests on 29 June 1951. After serving as choir master in ning. In this battlefield that is life, a Christian is not alone. We have a burg, the city where he lived most of his life. With his , he directed the powerful “a n t i v i ru s ” that is Jesus death, Joseph Ratzinger, who on 18 June travelled by choir at Regensburg for 30 years (1964-1994). himself, present even now thanks to air to visit his dying brother, has lost the last remain- He travelled the world playing numerous concerts and the unceasing work of the Holy Spir- ing member of his family. The two brothers — one a directed many etchings for important music labels, in- it and to the presence of the Church musician and conductor of a famous choir, the other a cluding productions dedicated to Bach, Mozart, and therefore of the sacraments. theologian, then bishop, cardinal and Pope — were ex- Mendelssohn and other composers. From this vantage point Jesus is tremely close, and even became priests on the same On 22 August 2008, the mayor of Castel Gandolfo both the technician who installs the d a y. granted Georg honorary citizenship, at which occasion antivirus and the antivirus itself, Georg Ratzinger was born in Pleiskirchen, Germany Benedict XVI said of his brother: “From the beginning who, within us — let us think of the on 15 January 1924. He began playing the organ in his of my life my brother has always been for me not only Eucharist, for example — supports us parish church as a boy of 11. He entered the seminary a companion, but also a trustworthy guide. For me he on the daily adventure of life. in 1935, but was enrolled in the Reich Labour Service has been a point of orientation and of reference with These are simple reflections at the in 1942, and then in the , the armed forces the clarity and determination of his decisions. He has end of the first semester of this year, of Nazi Germany, even fighting in Italy. He was cap- always shown me the path to take, even in difficult reconsidered with a spirit of grati- tured by the Allies in March 1945 and was a prisoner situations”. tude and hope, and in this spirit in for several months before being released and “My brother and I” — Georg Ratzinger said in an offered to the reader of this newspa- per that today marks 159 years of able to return to his family. interview 11 years ago — “were both altar boys, we both He was joined by his brother Joseph when he life. entered the seminary again in 1947, and together the CONTINUED ON PA G E 7 A.M. number 27, Friday, 3 July 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 7

Letter from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith Euthanasia remains an inadmissible act

The following is the translation of a ber 2017, of 1 February, 15 March, 20 ognized as ‘civil’ if it develops anti- pears all the more perverse if it is letter by the Cardinal Prefect of the June and 12 October 2018, and of 20 bodies against the throwaway cul- carried out by those, like relatives, Congregation for the Doctrine of the July 2019, this ’s letter to ture; if it recognizes the intangible who are supposed to treat a family Faith addressed to Br René Stockman, the Superior General of the Fr è re s value of human life; if solidarity is member with patience and love, or Superior General of the Congregation dated 30 June 2017, the document actively practiced and safeguarded as by those, such as doctors, who by of the Brothers of Charity, on the prac- Principles to be observed on the accom- the foundation of coexistence” virtue of their specific profession are tice of euthanasia in psychiatric hospi- paniment of patients in psychiatric hos- (POPE FRANCIS, Address to parti- supposed to care for the sick person tals of the Congregation’s Belgian pitals, and the meeting which took cipants in the Plenary Assembly of the even in their most painful terminal b ra n c h . place in Rome on 21 March 2018 Congregation for the Doctrine of the stages” (Evangelium Vitae, n. 66). should all be recalled. Fa i t h , 30 January 2020). In short, therefore, Catholic teach- Most Reverend Br René, Superior In this context, the Secretary of Furthermore, he reiterated that ing affirms the sacred value of hu- General, State and the Prefects of the Con- “the relational — and not merely man life; the importance of caring In March 2017, on the website of gregation for the Doctrine of the clinical — approach to the patient, for and accompanying the sick and the Belgian branch of the Congrega- Faith and of the Congregation for disabled; the Christian tion of the “Brothers of Charity”, a Institutes of Consecrated Life and value of suffering; the document was published which per- Societies of Apostolic Life asked the moral unacceptability mits — under certain conditions — Representatives of the Fr è re s and of of euthanasia; the im- the practice of euthanasia in a Cath- the Association Provincialat des olic hospital. This practice, suppor- possibility of introdu- Fr è re s to unequivocally affirm in cing this practice into ted by the Association P ro v i n c i a l a t writing their adherence to the prin- des Frères de la Charité asbl, is funda- Catholic hospitals, even ciples of the sacredness of human in extreme cases, and mentally based on three criteria: the life and the unacceptability of eu- inviolability of life, the autonomy of of collaborating in this thanasia, and, as a result, their abso- the patient and the relationship of regard with civil insti- lute refusal to carry it out in the in- care. Such a document, however, tutions. stitutions dependent on them. Un- makes no reference either to God, or It seems clear that fortunately, the replies received gave to Sacred Scripture, or to the Chris- the position of the no assurances on these points. tian vision of humanity. Brothers of Charity Euthanasia remains an inadmiss- The Congregation for the Doc- group in Belgium does trine of the Faith wrote to the Su- ible act, even in extreme cases, inas- not conform to such perior General, who had already dis- much as it “is a grave violation of principles. Indeed: 1.) approved of this document, asking the law of God, since it is the delib- considered in the uniqueness and in- it rejects the absolute nature of re- for clarifications, and the then-pre- erate and morally unacceptable tegrality of his person, imposes the spect for life, or rather, it calls into fect of the Dicastery informed the killing of a human person. This doc- duty never to abandon anyone in doubt that the life of an innocent Holy Father about the gravity of the trine is based upon the natural law the presence of incurable diseases. human being must be respected “al- case in an audience on 20 May 2017. and upon the written word of God, Human life, because of its eternal ways”, leaving open the possibility From 27 June 2017 until now, con- is transmitted by the Church’s Tradi- aim, preserves all its value and all its of exceptions; 2.) with regard to the tacts and meetings have taken place tion and taught by the ordinary and dignity in any condition, even of importance of the care and accom- between the Congregation for the universal Magisterium” (JOHN PAU L precariousness and fragility, and as paniment of psychiatric patients, it Doctrine of the Faith, the Congrega- II, Evangelium Vitae, n. 65). such is always worthy of the highest refers to the Belgian law on eu- tion for Institutes of Consecrated For his part, Pope Francis has af- consideration” (ibid.). thanasia, clearly opening the possib- Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, firmed that “the current socio-cultur- In these latter words, Pope Fran- ility for non-terminal psychiatric pa- the Secretariat of State, Representat- al context is progressively eroding cis touches on the theme of “com- tients; 3.) it leaves the responsibility ives of the Fr è re s and of the Associ- the awareness of what makes human passion”, which is increasingly in- and the right to accept or reject the ation Provincialat des Frères, as well life precious. Indeed, it is increas- voked by public opinion as a justi- request for euthanasia (“medical as representatives of the Episcopal ingly valued in terms of its efficiency fication for euthanasia. act”) to the doctor, thereby exclud- Conference of Belgium, in order to and utility, to the point of consider- John Paul II had already made it ing the hospital’s choice; 4.) it main- offer opportunities and spaces for ing lives that do not correspond to unequivocally clear that euthanasia tains the possibility of euthanasia dialogue on an extremely delicate this criterion as ‘re j e c t e d ’ or ‘un- is “a false mercy, and indeed a dis- within the Institute with the justific- subject and thus to find, in a spirit worthy’. In this situation of the loss turbing ‘p erversion’of mercy. True ation of enabling family members to of sincere ecclesiality, a convergence of authentic values, the inalienable ‘compassion’ leads to sharing anoth- avoid the effort of having to find an- on Catholic doctrine on the subject. duties of human and Christian soli- er’s pain; it does not kill the person other solution. The numerous interdicasterial darity and fraternity also fail. In whose suffering we cannot bear. The report of the Apostolic Visit- meetings of 31 August and 7 Novem- reality, a society deserves to be rec- Moreover, the act of euthanasia ap- ator, H.E. Bishop Jan Hendriks, also demonstrated no progress, since it shows the profound difficulty in maintaining the link between the works and the Congregation of the Georg Ratzinger dies Brothers of Charity, since those re- sponsible do not accept the commit- CONTINUED FROM PA G E 6 Georg Ratzinger was a blunt man, unaccustomed to ment to finding a viable solution diplomacy. For example, he never hid the fact that he that avoids any form of responsibil- served Mass. It was soon clear, first to me and then to was not overjoyed by his brother’s election to the ity for euthanasia on the part of the him, that our life would be in service to the Church”. papacy: “I must admit that I wasn’t expecting it and I institution. He also shared childhood memories: “In Tittmoning, was a little bit disappointed.... Given his burdensome Therefore, at the end of this long Joseph was confirmed by cardinal Michael Faulhaber, commitments, I knew that our relationship would and painful journey, and noting the the great Archbishop of Munich. He was touched by change considerably. In any case, behind the human lack of willingness to accept the this moment and had said that he also wanted to be- choice of the cardinals was the will of God and to this Catholic Doctrine on euthanasia, it come a cardinal. But, just some days after that meet- we cannot say no”. is announced, albeit with deep sad- ing, after watching the painter who was painting our In 2011, Georg said during an interview with a Ger- ness, that the psychiatric hospitals house, he also said that when he grew up he wanted to man magazine: “If he could no longer carry out his run by the Association P ro v i n c i a l a t be a painter...”. duties from the point of view of his physical condition, des Frères de la Charité asbl in Belgi- After recalling the dark years of the war and the op- my brother should have the courage to resign”. And he um, henceforth, can no longer be position to Nazism by their father, a gendarme, Georg was among the first to receive the news, several months considered Catholic institutions. spoke of their common love for music: “Everyone in ahead of time, of the ’s historic decision to step I gladly take this opportunity to our house loved music. Our father, as I already men- down from the Petrine ministry, for reasons related to confirm my feelings of religious re- tioned, had a zither and often played in the evenings. age. “Age makes itself felt”, Georg observed after the sp ect. We would sing together. It was always an event for us. announcement of the resignation in February 2013. C a rd i n a l LUIS F. L ADARIA, SJ In Marktl am Inn, there was a music group that fascin- “My brother desires more peace in his old age”. D espite P re f e c t ated me a great deal. I have always thought that music problems with his legs and vision, the elder brother of was one of the most beautiful creations of God. My the Pope emeritus continued to travel from Regens- GIACOMO MORANDI brother has also always loved music; maybe he got that burg to Rome, spending several periods in the Ma t e r Titular Archbishop of Cerveteri from me”. Ecclesiae monastery, often keeping Benedict company. S e c re t a r y page 8 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 3 July 2020, number 27

ANGELUS

On Sunday, 28 June, after praying the Angelus with the faithful gathered in Saint Peter’s Square, the Holy Father’s thoughts turned to the people of Syria, Yemen and Ukraine, who are living through an emergency situation caused by the serious political, social and humanitarian crises. Earlier, he had commented on the Gospel passage of Matthew (10:37-42). The following is a translation of the Pope’s reflection, which he delivered in Italian.

Pope Francis prays for Yemen and Ukraine Peaceful solution to the Syrian crisis

Dear Brothers and Sisters, following him along the path that Jesus reminds us of this: “He ourselves before God with willing Good morning! he himself trod, without looking who receives you receives me ... hearts, allowing his Word to for shortcuts. There is no true And whoever gives to one of judge our behaviour and our This Sunday, the Gospel (cf. Mt love without the cross, that is, these little ones even a cup of 10:37-42) forcefully echoes the in- choices. without a personal price to pay. cold water ... shall not lose his re- vitation to live out our bond with Many mothers, many fathers who w a rd ” (vv. 40, 42). God’s gener- the Lord fully and without hesita- After the Angelus, the Holy Father sacrifice a great deal for their ous gratitude takes into account continued: tion. Jesus asks his disciples to children, and bear true sacrifices, even the smallest gesture of love take the demands of the Gospel crosses, because they love them, and service given to our brothers Dear brothers and sisters, this seriously, even when that requires say this. And the cross is not and sisters. In these days, I heard Tuesday, 30 June, the European sacrifice and effort. frightening when borne with from a priest who was moved be- Union and the United Nations’ The first demanding request Jesus, because he is always at our cause a child approached him in Fourth Conference on “Supp ort- that he addresses to those who side to support us in the hour of his parish and said, “Father, this ing the future of Syria and the re- follow him is that of putting love the most difficult trial, to give us is my savings; not very much. It gion” will take place. Let us pray for him above family affection. strength and courage. Nor is it is for the poor, for those who are for this important meeting, so He says: “He who loves father or helpful to get agitated to preserve in need today because of the pan- that it may improve the dramatic mother ... son or daughter more one’s own life through fearful or demic”. A small thing, but a great situation of the Syrian people and than me is not worthy of me” ( v. egotistical behaviour. Jesus ad- thing. It is a contagious grati- neighbouring peoples, particu- 37). Jesus certainly does not in- monishes: “He who finds his life tude, which helps each of us to larly from Lebanon, in the con- tend to undervalue love for par- will lose it, and he who loses his be grateful to those who take care text of serious socio-political and ents and children, but he knows life for my sake” — that is, for of our needs. When someone of- economic crises that have been that if family bonds are put in love, for love of Jesus, love for fers us a service, we should not made even more difficult by the first place, they can deviate from one’s neighbour, for service to- think that we deserve everything. pandemic. Consider that there are the true good. We see this: some wards others — “will find it” ( v. No, many services are carried out hungry children, who have noth- forms of corruption in govern- 39). This is the Gospel paradox. freely. Think of volunteer work, ing to eat! Please, may the leaders ments come about precisely be- But we have many, many ex- which is one of the greatest be capable of making peace. cause love for family is greater amples of this too, thank God! things about Italian society. The I also invite everyone to pray than love for country, and so they We see it in these days. How volunteers … And how many of for the population of Yemen, here put family members in charge. It many people, how many people, them have lost their lives in this too, especially the children, who is the same with Jesus: when love are bearing crosses to help others; pandemic. They do it out of love, are suffering as a result of the [for family] is greater than [it is] they sacrifice themselves to help simply to serve. Gratitude, appre- very serious humanitarian crisis, for him, it is not good. All of us others who are in need in this ciation is, first of all, good man- and also for those affected by the can give many examples in this pandemic. But, always with Jesus, ners, but it is also a characteristic regard, not to mention those situ- it can be done. The fullness of of a Christian. It is a simple but severe floods in Western Ukraine: ations in which family affections life and of joy is found by giving genuine sign of the Kingdom of may they experience the comfort are intermingled with choices that oneself for the Gospel and for God, which is the kingdom of of the Lord and the help of their are contrary to the Gospel. our brothers and sisters, with gratuitous and grateful love. b re t h re n . When, instead, love for parents openness, welcoming and good- May Mary Most Holy, who I address my greeting to all of and children is inspired and puri- ness. loved Jesus more than her own you, people of Rome and pil- fied by love for the Lord, it then In so doing, we can experience life and followed him even to the grims from Italy and from other becomes wholly fruitful and pro- Go d’s generosity and gratitude. cross, help us to always put countries. I see flags: Polish, Ger- duces good fruits within the fam- man, and so many! In particular, ily itself and well beyond it. Jesus I greet those who, here this says this phrase in this sense. Let morning in Rome, attended the us also remember how Jesus re- Mass in the Congolese rite, pray- bukes the doctors of the law who ing for the Democratic Republic cause their parents to lack what is of the Congo. I greet the Con- necessary to them on the pretext golese delegation present here! of offering it at the altar, of giv- These Congolese people are ing it to the Church (cf. Mk 7:8- go o d! 13). He rebukes them! True love I wish you all a happy Sunday. for Jesus requires a true love for Please, do not forget to pray for parents and children, but if we me. Enjoy your lunch! And I will seek out family interests first, this see you tomorrow for the feast of always leads to the wrong path. Saints Peter and Paul. Then, Jesus says to his dis- ciples: “he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me” (Mt 10:38). This means