A renewed quest for unity

Slovakia prepares for culmination of celebrations of the Jubilee Year of Ss. Cyril and Methodius. The whole nation pays tribute to life and work of two Thessalonian brothers on the occasion of the 1150th anniversary of their arrival to the region of Great Moravia. Danka Jacecková has interviewed the main coordinator of celebrations, bishop Frantisek Rábek, on the occasion.How could you describe a spiritual and cultural dimension of celebrations of the Jubilee?”The Jubilee has encouraged many initiatives on the level of dioceses, parishes and various communities. Presentation of the character, life and mission of Ss. Cyril and Methodius evokes admiration of the greatness of their spirit, faith, self-sacrifice, but also of their diligence and geniality among people. Spiritual impulses based on their example have been often used in homilies during the past year. If we speak about cultural level, many pieces of literary, musical, dramaturgical and graphic art have been inspired by the phenomenon of both saints and their heritage. Adherence of these initiatives to the Jubilee is emphasized by using of its official logo and signature tune”.In what aspects particularly can the Cyrilo-methodian message be actual for a contemporary man?”In life of the saint Thessalonian brothers we can see many topics of the Gospel transformed to practis, we can admire their obedience to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and we can learn from them. But I guess the most actual thing for a contemporary man is an example of their humble faith in God and their unselfish service for the good of people”.Ss. Cyril and Methodius can be seen as an element of unity of Christians of all denominations. What can you say about ecumenical dimension of their heritage?”It’s important to acknowledge that Ss. Cyril and Methodius worked in the times of yet undivided Christianity. Not only we – Catholics – see them as ‘our saints’, but they are respected also by the Orthodox and the Evangelicals (although they do it more from cultural aspect). We can say that the relation and feelings towards Ss. Cyril and Methodius unite all Christians and at the same time they represents an appeal to renewed search for mutual unity in faith and love”.How would you describe a significance of the mission of both saints for building of the united Europe?”The fact that blessed John Paul II has declaired them the co-patrons of Europe says that their example and influence have a great significance for the nations of Europe. They wanted to help the Slavic nations to acknowledge and accept Christianity throught the translation of the Holy Scripture and liturgy to their language, they supported a culture of life based on Christian principles, and they have drawn the Slavic nations to unity with Rome and to the communion with other Christian nations of Europe. The base for true unity of European nation must be also today supported by opennes for the truth revealed by God and by altruistic service for our neighbours”.Let’s get back to celebrations of the Jubilee Year. What events on the national level in Slovakia will take place on the occasion?”Officially, four national events are planned, with participation of the highest representatives of the state, religious, social and political life of the country – extraordinary session of the National Council of the Slovak republic (4 July); national eucharistic celebration in the ancient diocese of Nitra with expected participation of thousands of faithful from all corners from the country and due to be presided by papal legate, cardinal Franc Rodé (5 July); premiere of the oratory Cyril and Methodius by the Slovak National Theatre in Nitra (5 July); and celebration at the Devín Castle (7 July)”.