Summary:
Diocese of Algarve celebrated the Jubilee of Consecrated Life with a special Eucharistic celebration.
Bishop D. Manuel Quintas emphasized the core significance of consecrated life in the Church.
Diversity among congregations enhances the richness of the Church.
All Christians are called to support and promote consecrated life.
Special honors were given to long-serving members of the religious community.
A Day of Significance
On the day the Church celebrated the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord and the Day of the Consecrated, the Diocese of Algarve held a special Eucharistic celebration at the São Pedro Church in Faro, presided over by Bishop D. Manuel Quintas.
Emphasizing the Importance of Consecrated Life
Bishop Quintas emphasized that the documents of the Church highlight that consecrated life is at the very heart of the Church, expressing a full donation to Christ. He noted, "This vocation identifies those who embrace it fully with the person of Jesus."
Diversity in Unity
The Bishop also pointed out that the different charisms of each congregation and institute showcase that communion in the Church is not uniformity but rather an enrichment stemming from the richness of each institute. He stated, "The more faithful an institute is to its unique identity, the more the entire Church feels enriched by its testimony and service."
A Call to Action
He encouraged all Christians to feel co-responsible for promoting this way of life within the Church, particularly in supporting those who are questioning their vocation and celebrating the presence of consecrated individuals in the diocese.
Sowers of Hope
Bishop Quintas reiterated his call for religious individuals to be sowers of hope, embodying the attitudes and gestures of Jesus. He prayed for the consecrated to remain steadfast in their vocation and generous in their service.
Honoring Long-Serving Members
During the celebration, special honors were given to Father Ferdinando de Freitas and Sister Maria da Conceição Rio for their 60 and 50 years of consecrated life, respectively. All consecrated individuals received a rose from the local parish as a token of appreciation.
Celebrating Milestones
The event also marked Bishop Quintas' 25 years of episcopal ministry, during which he received a commemorative gift. The Eucharist was co-celebrated by several clergy members, including César Chantre, the local parish priest, and others from various religious orders.
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