“The Catholic Church in Turkey is waiting for civil juridical recognition. This would help her to enjoy full religious freedom and to make an even greater contribution to society”, said Benedict XVI today, as he received in audience Kenan Gürsoy, Ambassador of Turkey, for the presentation of his Credential Letters. “The Catholics in Turkey appreciate the freedom of worship that is guaranteed by the Constitution, and are pleased to be able to contribute to the well-being of their fellow citizens, especially through involvement in charitable activity and healthcare”, declared the Pontiff recalling the assistance provided by the “La Paix” and “Saint Georges” hospitals in Istanbul, expressing the hope the Turkish Government will continue to support them. Benedict XVI went on to praise “the numerous initiatives” taken by Turkey to promote peace and stability in the Middle East, a country that is “well placed to act as a ‘bridge’ between Islam and the West”.
“As history has so often shown – said the Pope -, territorial disputes and ethnic rivalries can only be satisfactorily resolved when the legitimate aspirations of each party are duly taken into account, past injustices acknowledged and, when possible, repaired”. In his speech, the Pontiff also recalled his visit to Turkey in 2006 renewing his appreciation for the “warm welcome” he received and his “esteem” for Muslims. Then he went on to “reiterate the commitment of the Catholic Church to carry forward inter-religious dialogue in a spirit of mutual respect and friendship”. In 2010, we will celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkey and the Holy See, “a fruit of the pontificate of Pope John XXIII” who had served as Apostolic Delegate in Istanbul.

© SIR - Jenuary, 7th 2010