Kenneth F. Hackett, the new U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, formally presented his credentials to Pope Francis today at the Vatican Apostolic Palace. Ambassador Hackett, who served as president of Catholic Relief Services for 18 years, was nominated to the post by President Barack Obama in June.
In a statement released by the US Embassy to the Holy See, the new ambassador emphasized the commitment of the United States in engaging religious leaders in order “to address critical global issues.”
“The Vatican and the Holy Father have the ability to influence world events in a positive way through the calling of faith and they will continue to be important partners in future collaboration,” Ambassador Hackett stated.
“In my time at CRS, I had the personal joy of being involved in efforts to alleviate some of the conditions Pope Francis talks about – poverty, refugees, migration – and I believe there is much we can continue to do together to work further towards promoting human dignity.”
The U.S. Embassy also announced the launch of Ambassador Hackett’s blog, where he will share his thoughts during his time in Rome. The U.S. Ambassador wrote his first post today regarding today’s audience with the Holy Father.
“I had the honor of presenting my credentials today to His Holiness Pope Francis inside the apostolic palace, and I am excited and honored to begin this new journey,” Ambassador Hackett wrote.
Commenting on the shared importance on several issues, including human trafficking, food access and interreligious dialogue, the Ambassador expressed his hope “to deepening, and expanding” the collaboration between the United States and the Holy See.
