SIBIU, Romania, SEPT. 10, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor closed the ecumenical assembly in Romania expressing hopes that Europe can become a place where the dignity of all its inhabitants is respected.
Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor, archbishop of Westminster, said this at closing Vigil of Light at the 3rd European Ecumenical Assembly, while reflecting on the event's theme, "The Light of Christ Shines Upon All: Hope for Renewal and Unity in Europe."
"My first hope is that Europe will be a real home to all who dwell here," said the English cardinal.
"When I say home I mean that every single European will find dignity and well-being, and that we will always share of our tremendous riches and blessings with others throughout the world," he added.
"I can see," Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor continued, "from this gathering how good it is when the peoples and countries of Europe decide to cooperate together. Because that surely is a way to ensure peace and democracy for all."
One voice
The cardinal noted that Christians will have more influence when unity is achieved, saying "our witness will only be more powerful when we speak with one voice."
Delegates at the event adopted a four-page Assembly Message with 10 recommendations. The message will be given to churches, Europe and the world. It includes topics such as migration, the continued quest for Christian unity, human rights, issues of globalization, fair trade and climate change.
Also affirmed were a set of guidelines for European Christian interaction and cooperation, entitled "The Charta Oecumenica," as a "stimulating" resource "for our ecumenical journey in Europe."
The 3rd European Ecumenical Assembly was held last Tuesday through Sunday. It was organized by the Council of European Bishops' Conferences, representing the Catholic Church, and the Conference of European Churches, representing 125 other ecclesial communities.
ZE07091005 - 2007-09-10