Pope urges Christians to end divisions in face of global problems

Published: 2007-01-25

ROME (CNS) -- In the face of global instances of racism, poverty and conflict, Christians need more than ever to end their divisions and proclaim the Gospel with one voice, Pope Benedict XVI said. He made the comments at a Jan. 25 ecumenical prayer service, the liturgy that closed the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, in the Rome Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. After entering the brightly lit basilica, the pope was joined on the altar by representatives of Orthodox, Anglican and Lutheran churches. Below the main altar was a recent architectural opening that allows visitors to glimpse what church officials have identified as the tomb of St. Paul. The pope said he was happy that the tomb is now visible to pilgrims and called St. Paul a "tireless builder of unity" in the early church. After the service, the pope walked into the crypt area and peered through the opening to see the saint's burial place.

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