September 30, 2012. (Romereports.com) On October 7th , Benedict XVI will appoint two new doctors of the Church: They include  Hildegard of Bingen from Germany and Juan de Ávila from Spain.

The title recognizes that their theological teachings are relevant to Catholics, regardless of the time period. The official announcement was made by the Pope back on May 27th, 2012.

BENEDICT XVI (Regina Coeli, May 27th , 2012)
“I am pleased to announce that on October 7th, at the start of the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, I will name St. John of Avila and St. Hildegard of Bingen, Doctors of the Church.”

Appointing Doctors of the Church isn't something that happens that often. Paul VI appointed only two during his pontificate: St. Teresa of Avila and St. Catherine of Siena. John Paul II only named St. Therese of Lisieux.

There are currently 33 Doctors of the Church, but soon these two will be added to that list. Benedict XVI described their life and message as one that's still relevant to modern society.

BENEDICT XVI (Regina Coeli, May 27th , 2012)
“Hildegard was a Benedictine nun at the heart of the German Middle Ages, a true master of theology and a profound student of the sciences of nature and music. Juan, a diocesan priest in the years of the Spanish Renaissance, participated in the work of religious and cultural renewal of the Church and society to modernity.”

The appointment of these two new doctors of the Church will be a good way to welcome the Synod on the New Evangelization. It will kick off just a few days later to invite all Christians to deepen and renew their faith.


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