Experiencing Reconciliation

SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO - “We are called to be credible ministers of reconciliation. This means not only experiencing God’s mercy ourselves, but also obtaining it for others through prayer and a lifestyle that is a sign of that fatherly presence of God which is so much needed today”. These were the closing words of Mgr Michele Castoro to the participants at the International Week of Reconciliation, held at San Giovanni Rotondo from March 14-18, 2011. Over a hundred Capuchin friars and diocesan priests attended, from Italy, Romania, Spain, Portugal, Slovachia, Poland, Malta, India, Ethiopia, USA, Argentina, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Colombia. The meeting was organised in partnership between the Capuchin General Secretariat for Formation and the Shrine of Padre Pio. Against the backdrop of the example of the great “apostle of the confessional”, Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, the meeting provided useful ideas for enhancing the confessional ministry and making it a true experience of reconciliation, at a time when so many obstacles, not the least of which arise from our secularised societies, have made the sacrament of reconciliation something of a “forgotten sacrament” for many people. At the same time, there is a deep and widespread hunger for peace and reconciliation, which is why this sacrament is a vital part of the Church’s ministry and an occasion of genuine inner renewal.