Educate the faithful about God's plan for families, pope says
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Even if the peoples and culture of Benin are still deeply religious and fairly traditional, they need support and a deeper faith to withstand the gathering winds of secularization that are blowing around the world, Pope Francis said.
Meeting the country's bishops April 27, the pope thanked them for their prayers for the upcoming Synod of Bishops on the family and for the reflections on the synod's theme that took place around Benin.
"I can only encourage you to continue with determination your efforts to support families, both in their faith and in their daily lives," the pope wrote in a message handed to the bishops at the end of their meeting with him. The bishops were at the Vatican for their "ad limina" visits to report on what is happening in their dioceses.
"I know that the marriage ministry is difficult given the concrete social and cultural situation of your people," he said.
Polygamy was banned in Benin in 2004, although polygamous unions contracted before that date are still recognized by the government.
"Do not be discouraged," Pope Francis told the bishops. "Persevere constantly because the family as defended by the Catholic Church is a reality desired by God; it is a gift from God that brings people and societies joy, peace, stability and happiness."
Pope Francis' message said the bishops' "ad limina" reports described lively parishes, high attendance at Mass and other celebrations, a high rate of conversions to Christianity and many vocations to the priesthood and religious life.
"You are right, however, to emphasize in your reports that this growing faith sometimes is superficial and lacking strength," the pope wrote. "It is important that the desire for a deep knowledge of the Christian mystery is not the prerogative of an elite, but animates all the faithful, since all are called to holiness."
"This is important so that the church in Benin can resist and defeat the winds that rise around the world and will not fail buffet you as well," he said. "The spirit of secularism is also at work in your country, even if it is still not very visible. Only a faith deeply rooted in the heart of the faithful and concretely lived will help them face it."
Pope Francis also encouraged the bishops of Benin, where about half the population is Christian and about 24 percent are Muslim, to continue strengthening programs for interreligious dialogue.
While Benin is noted for being "an example of harmony," he said, "you should be vigilant, given the current international climate, to preserve this fragile heritage."