Canonization: Portuguese Episcopal Conference manifests “immense joy”

Canonization: Portuguese Episcopal Conference manifests “immense joy”

The note marks the importance of the calling to sanctity  

The Portuguese Episcopal Conference received with “immense joy” the news of the canonization of Francisco and Jacinta in Fatima, on the 13th of May, underlining that this fact, the Centennial and the Pope´s Pilgrimage “are greater reasons” to be in harmony, in prayer and in welcoming of the gift of sanctity”.

On a note distributed at the end of today´s morning, Fr. Manuel Barbosa, speaker of the Episcopal Conference, renews the already manifested on the 23rd of March congratulation, when it was announced the approval of the necessary miracle to the canonization of the two seers.

“It is never too much to remind and insist in the universal calling to sanctity, proclaimed by the Vatican Council II, in fidelity to what the Word of God transmits over this essential dimension of the cristian life”, marks the message.

“May the life example of Francisco and Jacinta Marto, now presented to the Church as role models and intercessors of sanctity, contribute to intensify the experience of the message Our Lady of the Rosary has given to us in Fatima”, concludes the note of the Portuguese Episcopal Conference.

The decision about the place and date of the canonization was announced today by Pope Francis in the public meeting of the Consistory, held in the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican.

The ceremony will be held during the Mass of the first International Anniversary Pilgrimage of the Centennial of the Apparitions, presided by Pope Francis.