AFTER distributing ashes to the Lenten Preachers of Rome al an Ash Wednesday ceremony in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Paul told them that the present time is characterised by "a great uncertainty of ideals, a great moral tiredness."
"Ideals", he said, "are in crisis. the force of thought has been substituted for by calculations of temporary expediency . . . the sword of the spirit seems to remain in the scabbard of doubt and peacefulness."
Precisely at this point, the Pope added, "the message of religious truth must resound with greater vigour . . . our duty to stir up better thoughts and more effective goals among men becomes grave and urgent." Preachers, he said, must study new forms and adapt them to sermons that will reach more of the public, "coming down from too lofty a height and even if necessary leaving the church and presenting itself, with respect and esteem, to whoever will listen."
Benedictine to lead Anglicans
A Benedictine monk of Ampleforth is to accompany an Anglican pilgrimage to Lourdes. The group, mainly young Anglican clergy and laymen, will leave England on April 13. returning on the 24th. Leader will be the Rev. N. Autton of London.
Travelling by coach, the pilgrims will visit many shrines on the route to and from Lourdes, including Chartres Cathedral.
Young Anglican clergy and laymen wishing to join the group should write to E. Peter Keevney, William Deacons Bank Ltd., 24 Grosvenor Place, London, S.W.I. Inclusive cost will be about £21.