1262 Acta Apostolicae Sedis - Commentarium Officiale

God's world in all its potential and beauty. We pray for a change of hearts

and minds that leads to a loving and responsible way to care for creation.

One in Christ

On this auspicious occasion, we express our gratitude to our brothers

and sisters representing the various Christian World Communions and Fel-

lowships who are present and join us in prayer. As we recommit ourselves

to move from conflict to communion, we do so as part of the one Body

of Christ, into which we are incorporated through Baptism. We invite our

ecumenical partners to remind us of our commitments and to encourage

us. We ask them to continue to pray for us, to walk with us, to support

us in living out the prayerful commitments we express today.

Calling upon Catholics and Lutherans worldwide

We call upon all Lutheran and Catholic parishes and communities to

be bold and creative, joyful and hopeful in their commitment to continue

the great journey ahead of us. Rather than conflicts of the past, God's gift

of unity among us shall guide cooperation and deepen our solidarity. By

drawing close in faith to Christ, by praying together, by listening to one

another, by living Christ's love in our relationships, we, Catholics and Lu-

therans, open ourselves to the power of the Triune God. Rooted in Christ

and witnessing to him, we renew our determination to be faithful heralds

of God's boundless love for all humanity.

MUNIB A. YOUNAN FRANCESCO