CNS STORY: Pope urges Cubans to put Scripture into practice with courage, hope

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CNS Story:

POPE-CUBA Sep-2-2008 (180 words) xxxi

Pope urges Cubans to put Scripture into practice with courage, hope

By Catholic News Service

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI sent a special greeting to Cuban Catholics and asked them to be missionaries of the Gospel in their society.

The pope, speaking in Spanish at a noon blessing Aug. 31, noted that the Cuban bishops recently launched a three-year preparation period for the 400th anniversary of the discovery of the image of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, Cuba's patroness.

Addressing the "dear Cuban nation," the pope encouraged Cuban Catholics to use the preparatory period to cultivate a faith "rich in works of mercy."

He also asked them to meditate on Scripture daily and put its words into practice with courage and hope, demonstrating that they are "missionaries of the Gospel in every walk of life."

Cuban bishops have asked all Cubans to join in the anniversary celebrations, noting that the image of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre is revered by all Christians, and is considered the spiritual mother of the country.

END

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