Zagreb, September 29, 2000 (IKA) — Within the framework of the preparations for the Eucharistic Congress of the Zagreb Archdiocese, the archbishop of Zagreb, Josip Bozanić, prayed in front of the Church of St. Francis Xavier in Zagreb in repentance for the past sins of the Church in Zagreb and for purification of memory. “In our country, there is frequent talk of reconciliation, repentance and forgiveness. On occasion, there is the impression that some are ordering repentance and programming reconciliation for others. As believers, Christians, we are aware of the magnitude of human freedom of action, especially in this area. Therefore, we sorrow when these words and efforts are employed in the wrong direction,” said Archbishop Bozanić. He also noted that during this year of the Great Jubilee, the Holy Father has urged us to purify our memory, which “demands from all the faithful the courageous act of humility, i.e. the recognition of the errors that we have committed or which have been committed in the name of Christianity.” The archbishop pointed out that today we want to purify the sins of Christian history through the centuries and to inspire in our Church and in each of us an active faithfulness to the enduring message of the gospel. “We need the gifts of being able to differentiate good from evil and hearts that love the truth in order for us to purify our memory and open our hearts and souls to the news of Divine mercy. Recognizing the errors of the past helps our consciences to be alert and receptive to the present moment. This generation living during the period of transition to the new millennium, especially our young people, cries out for purification, particularly on the social and national levels. May God in His mercy fulfill and complete our intentions, and open for all of us new paths of mutual respect, esteem and community,” concluded Archbishop Bozanić. The prayers of repentance were preceded by the devotion of the Way of the Cross, led by Archbishop Bozanić and Auxiliary Bishops Josip Mrzljak and Vlado Košić of Zagreb.