Monday, May 13, 2013

Vatican meets Columbia

This morning, the Holy Father, Pope Francis received in audience, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the President of the Republic of Columbia, His Excellency, Juan Manuel Santos Calderón.

Subsequent to his visit with the Pope, President Santos also met with His Eminence, Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone, Vatican Secretary of State and with His Excellency, the Most Reverend Dominique Mamberti, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States.

During the encounters, which took place in a cordial climate, the Pope and the President discussed the recent Canonization of Mother Laura Montoya Upegui, the first Columbian saint, a fruitful interpreter of the country's Christian roots who was canonized only yesterday in Saint Peter's Square. They also spoke of the Church's contribution to promoting a culture of encounter and her work in service to Columbia's human and spiritual progress, particularly in favour of the most needy and the young.

Various challenges which the country must face were also taken into consideration, especially regarding social inequalities.  Reference to the ongoing process of peace and the victims of conflict was not overlooked, and particular wishes were expressed that the parties involved carry on negotiations inspired by a sincere search for the common good and for reconciliation.  Emphasis was also placed on the Church's commitment in favour of life and of families.

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