Excerpt from Pope Benedict’s message. From Zenit:
“It is important to reaffirm that even in the presence of growing difficulties, Christ’s command to evangelize all peoples continues to be a priority. No reason can justify its slackening or stagnation because “the task of evangelizing all people constitutes the essential mission of the Church” (Paul VI, Apostolic Exhortation “Evangelii Nuntiandi”, n. 14). It is a mission that “is still only beginning and we must commit ourselves wholeheartedly to its service” (John Paul II, Encyclical “Redemptoris Missio”, n. 1). How can we not think here of the Macedonian who appeared to Paul in a dream and cried, “Will you come by to Macedonia to help us?”. Today there are countless people who are waiting for the proclamation of the Gospel, those who are thirsting for hope and love. There are so many who let themselves be questioned deeply by this request for aid that rises up from humanity, who leave everything for Christ and transmit faith and love for Him to people! (cf. “Spe Salvi”, n. 8).” Full message here.
