Final Message of the IV Ordinary General Assembly
of the Union of Catholic Apostolate
Centro San Vincenzo Pallotti, Grottaferrata, Italy
9th – 13th January, 2015
The IV Ordinary General Assembly of the Union of Catholic Apostolate met from January 9th to 13th, 2015, at the Saint Vincent Pallotti Spirituality Centre in Grottaferrata, Italy. The members of the Assembly, representing the Union around the world, met in a true spirit of the Cenacle. As we conclude our meeting, we offer this final message to all members and collaborators of the Union.
Our meeting with one another was one of joyful encounter, an experience of Cenacle, of true communion. Our time of deep community with one another reinforced our belief that the Spirit works in and through our diversity. We experienced a rich time of prayer with one another out of which we deliberated upon the needs of the Union at this time. We examined the reality of the Union closely, in an honest and open way, with a view also to working towards greater harmony. We made a very purposeful review of the life of the Union that we hope will lead to more effective action by the General Coordination Council and the National Coordination Councils.
The charism of St. Vincent Pallotti, as embodied in the Union, is a true gift to the Church and to the world. We see in the call of the Church, through Pope Francis, an echo of St. Vincent Pallotti and his actions in the city of Rome. We are very aware of the situations and difficulties of the world, particularly in the family and among the poor, and affirm our commitment to respond to the needs of our time. We challenge ourselves, all members and collaborators of the Union, to look beyond the confines of our narrow horizons, and to move outwards towards all. If each one of us is enflamed by the fire of love which comes from the Spirit and if we collaborate deeply with one another, then we will be able to go forward effectively on mission as joyful witnesses of Christ.
We call upon Mary, Queen of Apostles, and St. Vincent Pallotti, to intercede for us with Our Lord Jesus Christ, Apostle of the Eternal Father, that we may more fully live our missionary commitment to the apostolate through reviving faith and rekindling charity as apostles of Christ in the Church and in the world.
