The event showcases the vitality of the works of these Saints as timeless pieces and a powerful source of inspiration to “the Church’s pastoral work in the near future.”
Italy – Rome (13/02/2022 5:12 PM, Gaudium Press) On March 7-8, the Pontifical Urban University of Rome will host the first International Congress on Doctors of the Church and Patronesses of Europe.
The event, entitled ‘Doctors of the Church and Patronesses of Europe in dialogue with today’s world’, will celebrate Saints such as Thérèse of Lisieux, Hildegarde of Bingen, Teresa of Avila, Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, Bridget of Sweden and Catherine of Siena.
Doctors of the Church and Patronesses of Europe
In addition, the event will commemorate several remarkable dates: the 50th anniversary of the proclamation of St. Catherine of Siena and St. Teresa of Avila as Doctors of the Church, as well as the 400th anniversary of their canonization, the 25th anniversary of the doctorate of St. Therese of Lisieux; and the tenth of St. Hildegard of Bingen.
Alongside these holy women, the Patronesses of Europe proclaimed by Pope John Paul II in 1999 will also be remembered: St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein), St Bridget of Sweden, and St Catherine of Siena.
Objectives of the Congress
According to the organizers, the Congress highlights the emblematic example of so many women in history. It projects a new light bringing “new impetus and hope in the face of the many challenges that characterize our dynamic contemporary world.”
Considering the great changes and transformations that the world experiences today, the Congress emphasizes the message offered by these saints brings “light and hope” to delicate issues in the female universe. On the other hand, it presents the timeliness of their works as a powerful source of inspiration on “the Church’s pastoral work in the near future.” (EPC)
Compiled by Gustavo Kralj
