Pope meets with leaders of the Australian Christian Church

18-07-2008

Sydney, Jul 18, 2008 / 01:34 am (CNA) .- Fifteen leaders of the Australian Christian church met the Pope in an Ecumenical event held in the St. Mary's Cathedral Crypt on Friday morning.

Archbishop of Sydney, Cardinal George Pell represented the Catholic Church, whilst Rev Robert Forsythe was present for the Anglican Church, at an event reminiscient of the ecumenical efforts of the recent Pope John Paul II. The other denominations present included the Egyptian Catholic, Syrian Orthodox, Maronites, Indian Orthodox, Chinese Methodist, Lutheran and Uniting Church.

Youth representatives were also present at the event, where approximately fifty guests were present because of their involvement in the Ecumenical Council of NSW.

The pope delivered a short address to the leaders, praising their commitment to the ecumenical movement, citing the Covenant signed in 2004 by the members of the National Council of Church in Australia.

"This document recognizes a common commitment, sets out goals, and acknowledges points of convergence without glossing over differences," said the Pope.

"The road of ecumenism ultimately points towards a common celebration of the Eucharist... we can be sure that a common Eucharist one day would only strengthen our resolve to love and serve one another in imitation of our Lord."

"We must guard against any temptation to view doctrine as divisive and hence an impediment to the seemingly more pressing and immediate task of improving the world in which we live."

"The more eloquently our works of charity will speak of God's bountiful goodness and love towards all."

Finally the Pope concluded the address calling on the Christian world to work together.

"As ‘fellow citizens' of the ‘household of God,' Christians must work together to ensure that the edifice stands strong so that others will be attracted to enter and discover the treasures of grace within."

Following the meeting Pope met with religious leaders of other major faiths, at nearby St. Mary's Cathedral Chapter House.

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/sydney08/new.php?not_id=13290