October 2 - Pope Stresses Church's Role in Civic Life
Article: One World Religion
VATICAN CITY, OCT. 2, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is emphasizing the Church's role in educating and forming consciences of citizens, as a positive and real contribution to civic life and public discourse.
The Holy Father underlined this vision that is "enshrined in the nation's founding documents," which inspires "a cohesive yet pluralistic society constantly enriched by the gifts brought by new generations."
He continued, "In recent months, the reaffirmation of this dialectic of tradition and originality, unity and diversity has recaptured the imagination of the world, many of whose peoples look to the American experience and its founding vision in their own search for viable models of accountable democracy and sound development in an increasingly interdependent and global society."
Benedict XVI affirmed that the cultivation of the values of "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" must now be "viewed from the higher perspective of the common good of the whole human family," rather remaining on an individual or national level.
He added, "The continuing international economic crisis clearly calls for a revision of present political, economic and financial structures in the light of the ethical imperative of ensuring the integral development of all people."
"What is needed," the Pope observed, "in effect, is a model of globalization inspired by an authentic humanism, in which the world's peoples are seen not merely as neighbors but as brothers and sisters."
As well, Benedict XVI affirmed the need for the Church's guidance on issues such as "the protection of the right to conscientious objection on the part of health care workers, and indeed all citizens."
The Holy Father underlined this vision that is "enshrined in the nation's founding documents," which inspires "a cohesive yet pluralistic society constantly enriched by the gifts brought by new generations."
He continued, "In recent months, the reaffirmation of this dialectic of tradition and originality, unity and diversity has recaptured the imagination of the world, many of whose peoples look to the American experience and its founding vision in their own search for viable models of accountable democracy and sound development in an increasingly interdependent and global society."
Benedict XVI affirmed that the cultivation of the values of "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" must now be "viewed from the higher perspective of the common good of the whole human family," rather remaining on an individual or national level.
He added, "The continuing international economic crisis clearly calls for a revision of present political, economic and financial structures in the light of the ethical imperative of ensuring the integral development of all people."
"What is needed," the Pope observed, "in effect, is a model of globalization inspired by an authentic humanism, in which the world's peoples are seen not merely as neighbors but as brothers and sisters."
As well, Benedict XVI affirmed the need for the Church's guidance on issues such as "the protection of the right to conscientious objection on the part of health care workers, and indeed all citizens."
