The "positive results and hopes as well as the difficulties and concern" of the Croatian dioceses have been the focus of the conversations of these days between the Holy Father and the Croatian bishops on their visit ad limina. It was recalled this morning by Benedict XVI in the meeting with the bishops, headed by card. Josip Bozani, president of the Croatian Bishops Conference. Benedict XVI encouraged the "many pastoral plans" promoted by the Bishops "with great ardour", "to make a deeper knowledge of and a personal encounter with Jesus Christ possible". The most important of these plans are the "initiatives for a sound preparation to the Sacraments and an appropriate involvement in the liturgy", "commitment to religious formation and a quality catechesis in the schools and parish churches", "care for the traditional devotions and frequent pilgrimages, especially to the Marian sanctuaries". According to the Pope, "we should also mention the prudent opening to the new stimuli of the Spirit, which distributes its charismas and makes people ready to take responsibilities and offices, which help to renew and develop the Church".
