Archbishop welcomes Benedictine Torch being lit in London
Wednesday 2nd March 2011
In a message to a service this morning at Westminster Abbey, the Archbishop welcomed the choice of London for the annual lighting of the Benedictine Torch.The Torch of St Benedict, a symbol of peace, hope and European unity, is the main feature of an annual pilgrimage led by the abbot and monks of Montecassino, where St Benedict is buried. Its message has reached further afield than Europe, including Jerusalem and New York following the terrorist attacks on September 2011.
The lighting of the Torch represents the light of Christ in the life of St Benedict, whose monastic rule of work, study and prayer has had such an impact on the development of European culture.
Dear Friends:
The Benedictine life has always been both a steady witness to the demands and the gifts of the Gospel of Jesus, and a deeply unifying factor across many societies – in Europe and beyond.
I am very glad that this liturgical celebration is happening in London, in one of our most enduring Benedictine houses, which has been of such significance for both Church and nation. And I pray God's blessing on this particular moment in its unbroken tradition of praise and prayer, knowing that the flame of Benedictine holiness will, by God's grace, continue to burn with a clear light among the shadows and dark places of our continent and our world.
Peace:
+ Rowan Cantuar: