Posted on 06/05/2004 11:10:56 AM PDT by tvn
VATICAN CITY, JUNE 4, 2004 (Zenit.org).- John Paul II appealed to U.S. President George Bush for the return of Iraq to full sovereignty as soon as possible, with the participation of the international community, in particular the United Nations.
During an audience in the Vatican today, the Pope also called for "new negotiations" for peace in the Holy Land, programs to put an end to the "intolerable conditions" of Africa, and greater cooperation for peace between the United States and Europe.
The Holy Father expressed his appreciation of the Bush administration's commitment to the promotion "of moral values in American society."
John Paul II voiced these concerns in his address to Bush, whom he received with the president's wife Laura and his entourage of about 50, including Secretary of State Colin Powell.
The Pope and U.S. president spoke alone for 15 minutes in the Holy Father's private library.
John Paul II then greeted the president's entourage in the Clementine Hall. His voice, clear at first, weakened at the end, as he delivered a long address in English.
Bush's visit to the Vatican was the first in a tour through Europe to mark the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Rome and to remember the U.S. soldiers who gave their lives for the freedom of the peoples of Europe.
The Pontiff began by reiterating the Holy See's position on the Middle East.
In regard to Iraq, he expressed "the evident desire of everyone that this situation now be normalized as quickly as possible with the active participation of the international community and, in particular, the United Nations Organization, in order to ensure a speedy return of Iraq's sovereignty, in conditions of security for all its people."
"The recent appointment of a head of state in Iraq and the formation of an interim Iraqi government are an encouraging step towards the attainment of this goal," the Pope said.
In regard to the Holy Land, he called for "new negotiations, dictated by a sincere and determined commitment to dialogue, between the government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority."
"The threat of international terrorism remains a source of constant concern," he said. "It has seriously affected normal and peaceful relations between states and peoples since the tragic date of 11 September 2001, which I have not hesitated to call 'a dark day in the history of humanity.'"
"In the past few weeks other deplorable events have come to light which have troubled the civic and religious conscience of all, and made more difficult a serene and resolute commitment to shared human values: In the absence of such a commitment neither war nor terrorism will ever be overcome," the Holy Father said.
"May God grant strength and success to all those who do not cease to hope and work for understanding between peoples, in respect for the security and rights of all nations and of every man and woman," he continued.
John Paul II encouraged the "commitment" of the U.S. government and of numerous humanitarian agencies of that country "particularly those of Catholic inspiration, to overcoming the increasingly intolerable conditions in various African countries, where the suffering caused by fratricidal conflicts, pandemic illnesses, and a degrading poverty can no longer be overlooked."
The Holy Father also expressed his "great appreciation" for "your commitment to the promotion of moral values in American society, particularly with regard to respect for life and the family."
Finally, John Paul II urged "a fuller and deeper understanding between the United States of America and Europe," so that together they will have "a decisive role in resolving the great problems ... confronted by humanity today."
Bush's visit to the Vatican lasted less than two hours and took place amid tight security measures.
Zenit is an International News Agency. Their mission is to provide objective coverage of events, documents and issues emanating from or concerning the Catholic Church. Thanks for posting this thread.
Catholic Ping - let me know if you want on/off this list
About twelve years ago, my mom and dad and sister, incredibly, were given a private audience with the Pope. My sister just asked! Must have been a slow day at the Vatican, I guess... lol.
The picture is one of the proudest possessions in their home. Unfortunately for President Bush and Laura, that picture of the pope is better - but his words are even more important with the passing of time.
Thanks for posting the other side of the story.
Totally different spin from the article in our local paper. That headline was: "Pope Critical of Bush" - and then the entire article was written to take every comment and reinforce the headline. I shouldn't be surprised, but it pisses me off - and of course, no mention was made in the article about the positive aspects vis-a-vis President Bush, what he stands for and what he has done/is doing.
Arrrgh!!!!
**"The threat of international terrorism remains a source of constant concern," he said. "It has seriously affected normal and peaceful relations between states and peoples since the tragic date of 11 September 2001, which I have not hesitated to call 'a dark day in the history of humanity.'"**
No one has reported this wonderful statement by the Pope! Amazing, isn't it?
Another quote that the leftist lamestream media is not reporting.
For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 4, 2004
President Bush Presents Medal of Freedom to Pope
Remarks by the President in Presentation of Medal of Freedom
to His Holiness Pope John Paul II
The Vatican, Italy
12:58 P.M. (Local)
THE PRESIDENT: Your Holiness, thank you very much for receiving Laura and me, and our delegation. I bring greetings from our country, where you are respected, admired and greatly loved.
I also bring a message from my government that says to you, sir, we will work for human liberty and human dignity, in order to spread peace and compassion; that we appreciate the strong symbol of freedom that you have stood for, and we recognize the power of freedom to change societies and to change the world.
And so, sir, we're honored to be here. Perhaps the best way I can express my country's gratitude to you, and our respect to you, is to present to you the Medal of Freedom from America. And if you might allow, I'd like to read the citation attached to that honor:
"A devoted servant of God, His Holiness Pope John Paul II has championed the cause of the poor, the weak, the hungry, and the outcast. He has defended the unique dignity of every life, and the goodness of all life. Through his faith and moral conviction, he has given courage to others to be not afraid in overcoming injustice and oppression. His principled stand for peace and freedom has inspired millions and helped to topple communism and tyranny. The United States honors this son of Poland who became the Bishop of Rome and a hero of our time."
And so, on behalf of the American people, Your Holiness, I would be honored if you would accept our Medal of Freedom.
(The Medal of Freedom is presented.) (Applause.)
HIS HOLINESS POPE JOHN PAUL II: I am very grateful, Mr. President, for this thoughtful gesture. May the desire for freedom, peace, a more humane world symbolized by this medal inspire men and women of goodwill in every time and place.
God bless America. (Applause.)
END 1:00 P.M. (Local)
Return to this article at:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/06/20040604-3.html
The text of the discussion is behind the following URL.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1148172/posts
Thanx for posting that enlightening thread.
Thanx for providing that lovely picture which obviously shows two men who have a genuine affection for each other.
bttt
Thank you for posting this.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.