Pope Benedict XVI welcomed all those who attended the International Conference of the Benedictine Confederation today, offering thoughts on how to respond to the challenges of the modern world.

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Describing a faithless world marked by a worrying shift towards a culture of emptiness, Pope Benedict XVI called on Benedictine abbots to uncompromisingly celebrate the primacy of God.

The Holy Father also expressed his gratitude for the cultural and educational role played by many Benedictine monasteries, particularly in supporting younger generations and creating a welcoming space. He highlighted the importance of preparing young people for future challenges in life through the word of the Gospel, which remains ever relevant, constant and vibrant.

The youth are the future of the Church, said His Holiness. In order to build a ‘new’ Europe, we must begin with the new generations, giving them the opportunity to become intimately familiar with the word of God.

The Benedictine Confederation of the Order of Saint Benedict is the international governing body of the Order of Saint Benedict, and was founded in 1883 by Pope Leo XIII.

There are 21 National Congregations of the Benedictine Order, representing the over 300 Benedictine monasteries in the world.