VATICAN CITY, JAN. 11, 2008 (Zenit.org).- An address from Benedict XVI has been used for "political manipulation" in a way that "cannot but provoke amazement," the Holy See says.
In a communiqué released today, the Vatican press office responded to the interpretation given by the media of the Pope's address Thursday to representatives from the Latium Region and the Province and City of Rome. Piero Marrazzo, president of the Region of Latium; Walter Veltroni, mayor of the city of Rome; and Enrico Gasbarra, president of the province of Rome, each accompanied by an entourage, visited the Holy Father for the traditional exchange of New Year's greetings.
The Pontiff spoke to the leaders about various situations in and around Rome, including the need to support the family based on marriage. Political adversaries of Veltroni portrayed the speech as if the Pope had scolded the mayor for degradation in the city.
The Vatican statement today explained: "The political manipulation that has followed the words addressed by the Holy Father yesterday to representatives from the Region of Lazio, and the Province and City of Rome cannot but provoke amazement. It was certainly not the Pope's intention to undervalue the social work being carried out with praiseworthy dedication by the leaders of the City of Rome and of the Region.
"In fact, as Bishop of Rome, he has in various circumstances, even recently, highlighted the achievements made in the service of citizens, achievements he was also careful to underline in yesterday's address. At the same time, however, he could not but mention -- giving a voice to the many people who turn to him -- certain particularly pressing human problems, which must be faced with everyone's contribution. The Church, as His Holiness has assured, will not fail in her own involvement and collaboration."
