Vatican City (Vatican), Dec. 10 (LaPresse) – “European identity can only be understood and promoted in reference to its Judeo-Christian roots,” and “the purpose of protecting the religious heritage of this continent, however, does not simply consist in safeguarding the rights of its Christian communities, nor is it primarily about preserving particular customs or social traditions, which in any case vary from place to place and throughout history.”
This is what Pope Leo XIV said while receiving a delegation from the European Conservatives and Reformists Group of the European Parliament. In his speech, the Pope recalled that “one of the essential purposes of a parliament is to allow such opinions to be expressed and discussed.”
“The hallmark of any civil society is that differences are debated with courtesy and respect,” the Pope added, “for the ability to dissent, to listen attentively, and even to enter into dialogue with those we might consider opponents, testifies to our reverence for the dignity God has given to all men and women.”
He concluded by inviting attendees “to look to Saint Thomas More, the patron of politicians, whose wisdom, courage, and defense of conscience are a timeless inspiration for those seeking to promote the well-being of society.”