The conference of Bishop Friends of the Focolare, which is currently underway at the Mariapolis Centre of Castel Gandolfo, is titled: “If the world only knew him…” referring to the mystery of the abandonment of Jesus on the cross as the key to encounter among cultures. In a hand-signed message Pope Francis wished to express his closeness and encouragement to entering more deeply into this topic that urges us to “go towards the existential, cultural and social peripheries” and to “strengthen the bonds of communion and collegiality.” The message, which is addressed to the moderator of the gathering, Archbishop Francis X. Kovithavanij, had great impact and aroused much gratitude among the bishops. _____________________________________

To Cardinal

FRANCIS XAVIER  KRIENGSAK  KOVITHAVANIJ

Archbishop of Bangkok

“On the occasion of the meeting of Catholic Bishops engaged with the spirituality of the Focolare Movement, I wish to extend my cordial greetings to all of you, assuring you of my spiritual closeness. The theme around which your days together revolve goes to the very heart of our faith and ministry as pastors, helping to turn the eyes of the heart and of the mind to Jesus crucified. This gaze, fixed with persevering love and sincere gratitude, urges us to “go to him outside the camp” (Heb 13:13), to the existential, cultural and social peripheries where our people live. It is there, in fact, that we meet His face in a way that is significant, and take care of His wounds which we find gaping in the countless wounds of our brothers and sisters. In this way we will sow the joy of the Gospel, caring for the wounds with the balm of God’s mercy which flows from the Risen Jesus, who is the source of life for everybody. Dear Brothers in the episcopate, I wish you that this pause for reflection and sharing may strengthen the bonds of communion and collegiality. I invoke the Spirit of the Lord upon you and, as I ask you to pray for me, I affectionately extend my Blessing to you.”

Fraternally,

Francis

Vatican, 2 March 2017