Benedict tells bishops of Togo to evangelize and care for the family, addresses formation of priests

From Catholic News Agency:

Vatican City, Jun 22, 2007 / 08:42 am (CNA).- This morning Pope Benedict received the Bishops of Togo, Africa and exhorted them to evangelize the family, the youth, and through the Catholic schools.

The Holy Father began his address to the bishops by thanking them for "your perseverance and courage in the face of the numerous difficulties your country has had to face over past years. On many occasions," he told them, "you have contributed to dialogue for national reconciliation.”

After highlighting the African prelates' commitment "to protecting and respecting life," Benedict XVI explained that "the promotion of the truth and dignity of marriage, and the defense of essential family values, must be one of your major priorities.

One topic that the pontiff paid particular attention to was the necessity of forming couples and families. He noted that evangelization begins in the family and that in the family young people learn the value of being uniquely faithful and committed.

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