Brussels, 14/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso and President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy have sent their sincere congratulations to the new sovereign pontiff Francis I in a joint press release.
“We wish you a long and blessed pontificate, which will allow your Holiness and the Catholic Church to defend and promote the fundamental values of peace, solidarity and human dignity (…) We are convinced that your Holiness will continue to further with determination and strength the work of your predecessors by bringing the world's people and religions closer together.” These values are essential in a world full of change that is faced with numerous challenges, Barroso and Van Rompuy stated.
The two men will participate in the inaugural mass of Pope Francis I in Rome on 19 March.
President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz also congratulated Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio on his election, wishing him “courage and strength”. Schulz wants this election to mark a new impetus for the Catholic Church - a new impetus which is necessary “to revive the fundamental values which are the basis of Christianity such as solidarity, peace among nations and peoples, tolerance and support for the weakest and poorest (…) The pontiff has an opportunity for renewal at a time when the Roman Catholic Church faces numerous and momentous challenges.” Speaking of the pope's fundamental role of spiritual guide for millions of believers in the world, Schulz also welcomed the choice of a non-European pope, which is “an encouraging sign”.
The Commission of the Bishops' Conferences in the European Community (COMECE) also welcomed the election of Pope Francis I. “At this critical time when there is deep confusion about Europe's future, it may be an opportune moment for the new pontiff to inject fresh enthusiasm into the search for a vision of Europe. This vision enshrines those Christian values, which so inspired the founding fathers of the European project”, stated Rev. Patrick H. Daly, General Secretary of COMECE. (IL/transl.fl)