MESSAGE FROM THE CARDINAL PATRIARCH OF LISBON
on the occasion of the departure of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts
The Congregation of the Sacred Hearts have completed their work among us, having done so much work in the areas of priestly formation, popular missions, and in various parishes, (the last being Catujal and Unhos). The reality of declining numbers has led them to close their last community. We pray that the Lord of the harvest send them more vocations so that they may return one day.
In the 30s and 40s of the last century, the Congregation worked directly with Cardinal Cerejeira in the Olivais Seminary, forming priests for the Patriarchy and others too. Then and since then they also concentrated on local missions, bringing the faith to many places. In the various parishes that they served, the left the Gospel mark of serving the poor in simple and dedicated ways.
The Patriarchate of Lisbon owes many thanks to them, and hopes they will return bringing with them their excellent charism.
9 October 2018,
+ Manuel, Cardinal-Patriarch
11/09/2018