The pontifical foundation Aid to the Church in Need, headquartered in Germany and represented in 24 countries, held its directors’ conference at our General House from May 5 to 7. From May 7 to 12, they then met with 1,200 benefactors for the jubilee pilgrimage here in Rome. Since the conclave made the planned private audience and procession through the Vatican Gardens impossible, the opening event was moved to the garden of our General House. After the opening by the President of the Foundation, Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, and the Executive President, Regina Lynch, there was a prayer service with a rosary procession through the garden. The procession ended in the inner courtyard at the cross with the Litany of Loreto, intercessions and the blessing by the international ecclesiastical assistant, our Father Anton Lässer CP (VULN). Afterwards, there was a welcoming gathering with various buffets. The opportunity to confess, offered by more than 20 priests in various languages, was also utilized. After a very successful beginning in a beautiful environment, the pilgrims moved to St. John Lateran, where they attended a festive mass and listened to testimonies from persecuted and oppressed Christians. Interrupted by shouts of “Habemus Papam“, most of them then headed towards St. Peter’s Square to greet the new successor of Peter. A big thank you goes to the Passionists and especially to the rector of the house, Father Natale Panetta, and the director of the retreat house, Father Vito Patera, for this opportunity. Best wishes and Regards, Fr. Anton.
