Pope aims to boost the faith of Britons with planned visit

Feb 1, 2010, 16:36 GMT

Vatican City - Pope Benedict XVI said Monday he plans to travel later this year to Britain, where he says signs of religious fervour still exist despite 'the pressures' of secularism.

Benedict confirmed he intends to make his first visit as pontiff to Britain in his address to members from the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, who are attending a series of meetings in the Vatican.

'On the occasion of my forthcoming apostolic visit to Great Britain, I shall be able to witness that faith for myself and, as Successor of Peter, to strengthen and confirm it,' Benedict told the prelates.

He urged the bishops 'during the months of preparation that lie ahead ... to encourage the Catholics of England and Wales in their devotion, and assure them that the pope constantly remembers them in his prayers and holds them in his heart.'

The Vatican has yet to announce the dates or the itinerary of the visit. Reports in Italy and Britain suggest it is likely to take place in September.

The planned trip has triggered controversy, with some saying that if it takes the form of a state visit, then the expenses would have to be covered by British taxpayers.

Activists have also said they plan to mount a protest campaign made up of gay groups, victims of clerical abuse, feminists, family planning organizations and pro-abortion groups among others.

On Monday, Benedict, in his address to the bishops, noted how, 'even amid the pressures of a secular age, there are many signs of living faith and devotion among the Catholics of England and Wales.'

The pontiff cited 'the enthusiasm generated,' by thousands of faithful in September and October 2009 who lined up to view the relics of St Therese of Lisieux when a casket containing the remains of the 19th-century Roman Catholic nun toured England and Wales.

Benedict also mentioned the 'interest aroused' by the possible beatification of the 19th century cardinal John Henry Newman.

The beatification - which it has been suggested could take place at a ceremony presided by Benedict during his visit - would bring Newman a step closer to becoming the first non-martyred English saint since the Reformation.