Nov 27, 2007 / 09:48 am
Cardinal Andrea Cordero Lanza di Montezemolo, Archpriest of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, said this week the Pauline Year, which will be celebrated June 28, 2008 through June 20, 2009, will allow for “a greater understanding of St. Paul, who is one of the greatest presenters and commentators of the doctrine of redemption.”
The cardinal made his comments on Vatican Radio after presenting the initiative to the Pope and cardinals last Sunday at the New Synod Hall at the Vatican. “The Pope has said,” Cardinal Montezemolo continued, that the purpose of the Pauline Year “is to make St. Paul known,” as he is “not sufficiently known in all of his teachings, including by Catholics.”
“Therefore, on the occasion of the two thousandth anniversary of his birth, we will take advantage of this year to dedicate it with particular attention to his person, his actions, his travels and the immense treasure of doctrine that is contained in his letters and epistles,” he added.
The cardinal explained that “a sort of center for all of the activities of this Pauline Year” has been set up at St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, and he revealed that an ecumenical chapel will be prepared “for our separated brethren, so that they can celebrate their liturgies and prayers near the tomb of St. Paul.”
He added that a number of sites in Rome would be chosen as special places dedicated to St. Paul and would permit people to make a Pauline pilgrimage around the city.
Cardinal Montezemolo invited Catholics to embrace the Pauline Year with generous hearts. “It’s an idea I have discussed with the Holy Father for more than two years,” he said.
More information on the Pauline Year can be found at www.annopaolino.org (Note: An English version is not yet available but is being created)