Seven years ago, the Synod for America delved deeply into a broad range of social justice concerns in the Western hemisphere. It fostered new relationships and new partnerships among Church leaders throughout North and South America, and a much greater appreciation for the importance of the Church's teaching on matters of social justice in the Americas.

Among the synod's recommendations was the request that the Holy See issue a compendium of the social teachings of the Church. The release of this document now is especially timely, as the world confronts very serious concerns regarding peace and social justice in the Mideast, the march toward European unity and the need to acknowledge and embrace the continent's deep roots in Christianity, and the implications of the outcome of next week's election in the United States.

We gather here in Rome as Pope John Paul II celebrates the 26th anniversary of his pontificate, and are truly blessed to be able to draw upon his teaching and his accomplishments during a pontificate that has done so much to advance the work of the Church in its quest for peace and justice.

It is also important to bear in mind the responsibility of each person in the renewal of modern culture and society, and the role in this effort that his Holiness has assigned to lay Catholic organizations like ours. The Knights of Columbus enthusiastically embraces the goals of peace and justice, and the opportunity to serve our Church and all mankind in this crucial work.