"The Word of God can recover humanity in reconciliation, justice and peace. This is the word of life which the Church should give to a shattered world". Those words were written by Benedict XVI in the letter which he sent to the participants in the 7th General Assembly of the Catholic Biblical Federation, starting off today in Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania, and finishing on 3rd July. Subject of the Assembly: "The Word of God: a source of reconciliation, justice and peace". "The General Assembly stated the Pope is a constant and privileged opportunity for the members of the Catholic Biblical Federation to listen to the Word of God together, and to renew their service in favour of the Church, which is asked to proclaim the Gospel of peace. The fact that your meeting is taking place in Dar-Es-Salaam is an important gesture of solidarity with the Church in Africa, especially with a view to the special synod for Africa, next year. The message you bring to Dar-Es-Salaam is clearly a message of love for the Bible and love for Africa… May the African Continent establish the context for the God lesson which will assist you in these days, and may your efforts help the Church in Africa to continue its evangelizing mission". (To be continued)
