Madrid, Spain, Apr 30, 2008 / 18:37 pm
Cardinal Antonio Rouco Varela of Madrid has expressed to missionaries his joy over their “generous commitment” and called attention to the limitations they suffer due to a lack of resources.
In a series of letters to missionaries and their families, Cardinal Rouco has said all Catholics should be open to the universal mission of the Church. “Those of us who remain in Madrid supporting our missionaries in faraway countries, and they who count on us … cooperate in the building of the one and only Church of Christ,” the cardinal wrote.
He called on young people to be docile to the call of Christ, saying “there is no greater joy” that giving one’s life for God and in service to others.
In another letter addressed to the families of missionaries, Cardinal Rouco said that they are a gift for those who are far away, “through your support, your prayer and your love”. In addition, they are a gift because they bear witness that “there is something great which makes giving a child or a brother to mission work worthwhile.” “Your lives are a testimony for those who cannot understand the vocation of your loved ones,” he said.
Cardinal Rouco also recalled the limitations suffered by missionaries who have “scarce” resources and on more people “to follow the call of Christ to the missions.”
This coming Sunday the cardinal will celebrate a Mass and commissioning service for new missionaries who will leave this year.