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Monday, February 2, 2009

PROTECT THE VITAL COHESIVE ROLE OF THE FAMILY

VATICAN CITY, 2 FEB 2009 (VIS) - This morning in the Vatican, the Holy Father received the Letters of Credence of Janos Balassa, the new ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See.

  In his English-language address to the diplomat, the Pope explained how "the forces that govern economic and political affairs in the modern world need to be ... built upon an ethical foundation, giving priority always to the dignity and the rights of the human person and the common good of humanity.

  "In view of its strong Christian heritage, stretching back over a thousand years, Hungary is well placed to assist in the promotion of these humane ideals within the European community and the wider world community, and it is my hope that our diplomatic relations will serve to support this vital dimension of your country's contribution to international affairs".

  Referring then to his Message for the 2008 World Day of Peace in which he had "stressed the primordial importance of the family for building peaceful community relations at every level", the Holy Father noted how "in much of modern Europe the vital cohesive role that the family has to play in human affairs is being called into question and even endangered as a result of misguided ways of thinking that at times find expression in aggressive social and political policies.

  "It is my earnest hope", he added, "that ways will be found of safeguarding this essential element of our society, which is the heart of every culture and nation. One of the specific ways government can support the family is by assuring that parents are allowed to exercise their fundamental right as the primary educators of their children, which would include the option to send their children to religious schools when they so desire".

  Benedict XVI then highlighted how the Catholic church in Hungary, "after decades of oppression, sustained by the heroic witness of so many Christians, ... has emerged to take her place in a transformed society, able once more to proclaim the Gospel freely. She seeks no privileges for herself, but is eager to play her part in the life of the nation, true to her nature and mission".

  He concluded: "As the process continues of implementing the agreements between Hungary and the Holy See - I think of the recently signed memorandum on religious assistance for the armed forces and border police - I am confident that any outstanding questions affecting the life of the Church in your country will be resolved in the spirit of good will and fruitful dialogue which has characterised our diplomatic relations ever since they were so happily restored", in 1990.
CD/LETTERS CREDENCE/HUNGARY:BALASSA        VIS 20090202 (450)


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