Pope Benedict XVI Blog

The Eucharist as the response to the crisis and loss of meaning of our time, says Pope

» 04/26/2009 17:10
VATICAN

Benedict XVI canonises five new saints, examples of how it is possible “to set the bases to build a society open to justice and solidarity, overcoming the economic and cultural unbalance that continues to exist in much of our planet.”

Vatican City (AsiaNews) – Since the time Jesus was physically present among the Apostles until today, marked by a major economic crisis and a loss of meaning especially among the young, the faithful have found inspiration and support in the Eucharist. In “a conversion that changes the heart at the root and is translated in coherent actions through the Gospel,” it is possible “to set the bases to build a society open to justice and solidarity and overcome the economic and cultural unbalance that continues to exist in much of our planet.”

This is the lesson Benedict XVI has drawn from the lives of five blessed, four Italians and one Portuguese, who were canonised today in a solemn Mass celebrated in the parvis of St Peter’s Basilica, on a grey day, before 30,000 people. They are: Arcangelo Tadini, (1846-1912), founder of the Congregation of Worker Sisters of the Holy House of Nazareth; Bernardo Tolomei (1272-1348), abbot , founder of the Congregation of the Blessed Virgin of Monte Oliveto of the Order of Saint Benedict; Nuno de santa Maria Álvares Pereira (1360-1431), a friar in the Carmelite order; Geltrude Comensoli (1847-1903), foundress of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament (the Sacramentine Sisters); and Caterina Volpicelli (1839-1894), foundress of the Congregation of the Servants of the Holy Heart.

“The different human and spiritual moments in the lives of these new saints,” said the Pope, “show us the profound renewal in man’s heart that results form the mystery of Christ’s resurrection, a fundamental mystery that leads and guides the whole history of Salvation. Hence, the Church rightly and always urges us to look upon the Risen Christ, at Eastertide especially, who is truly present in the Sacrament of the Eucharist.”
more...

See also:

"Pope Benedict points to new saints for encouragement and joy"

"Pope Benedict names five new saints including Portugal's independence leader"

posted by Dr. Denice Hanley, DPM, M.Div. @ 2:11 PM