Exciting news from Rome as the 97th plenary assembly of the Reunion of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches (Roaco) is set to take place from June 24 to June 27. The event promises to be a gathering of great significance with contributions and reports focusing on the Holy Land and Ukraine.

Hosted at the Conference Hall of the General Curia of the Society of Jesus, the assembly will kick off on Monday afternoon with Cardinal Prefect Claudio Gugerotti, president of Roaco, leading the inaugural Eucharistic celebration. A special remembrance of living and deceased benefactors, as well as prayers for peace in war-torn regions, will be central to the opening ceremony.

Highlights of the Assembly

The assembly will feature discussions on the situation in the Holy Land, with insights from key figures such as Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana and Custos of the Holy Land, Franciscan Francesco Patton. Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher will provide an overview of the Holy See’s diplomatic activities, focusing on regions like Ukraine, the Middle East, and Ethiopia.

Wednesday’s agenda will revolve around the theme of “Pastoral Care of Eastern Catholics Residing Outside their Territories”, with notable speakers including Archbishop Borys Gudziak and Bishop Frank Y. Kalabat. The day will also see Cardinal Mario Zenari reporting on the progress of the “Open Hospitals” project in Syria.

Looking Ahead

The assembly will conclude with a future plan outlined by the Steering Committee and a special audience with Pope Francis on Thursday, June 27. Participants from various Catholic Agencies, along with officials from different Vatican departments, will come together for this momentous occasion.