CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy, SEPT. 16, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI believes that the Church has an ethical contribution to make in a pluralistic democratic society.
The Pope gave his support Saturday to the "structured dialogue" between the Church and the government of Ireland in an address delievered to Noel Fahey, Irish ambassador to the Holy See, when Fahey presented his letters of credence.
The Holy Father observed: "In recent years Ireland has enjoyed unprecedented economic growth. This prosperity has undoubtedly brought material comfort to many, but in its wake secularism has also begun to encroach and leave its mark.
"Against the backdrop of these developments, I was interested to learn of the recent launch of a ‘structured dialogue’ between the Church and the government. I applaud the initiative."
Faith and reason
The Pontiff acknowledged that some might "question whether the Church is entitled to make a contribution to the governance of a nation."
But he noted that: "The historical rise of brutal totalitarian regimes, contemporary scepticism in the face of political rhetoric, and a growing uneasiness with the lack of ethical points of reference governing recent scientific advances -- one need only think of the field of bio-engineering -- all point to the imperfections and limitations found within both individuals and society.
"Recognition of those imperfections indicates the importance of a rediscovery of moral and ethical principles, and the need both to recognize the limits of reason and to understand its essential relationship of complementarity with faith and religion."
Benedict XVI affirmed that the Church serves all members of society "by shedding light on the foundation of morality and ethics, and by purifying reason, ensuring that it remains open to the consideration of ultimate truths and draws upon wisdom."
"Far from threatening the tolerance of differences or cultural plurality, or usurping the role of the state," he added, "such a contribution illuminates the very truth which makes consensus possible and keeps public debate rational, honest and accountable."
"When truth is disregarded, relativism takes its place: Instead of being governed by principles, political choices are determined more and more by public opinion, values are overshadowed by procedures and targets, and indeed the very categories of good and evil, and right and wrong, give way to the pragmatic calculation of advantage and disadvantage," the Holy Father said.
Hope for peace
Benedict XVI observed that the peace process in Northern Ireland "has been a long and arduous endeavour."
He said: "At last, there is hope that it will bear enduring fruit. Peace has been achieved through widespread international support, determined political resolve on the part of both the Irish and the British governments, and the readiness of individuals and communities to embrace the sublime human capacity to forgive.
"It is my fervent prayer that the peace which is already bringing renewal to the North will inspire political and religious leaders in other troubled zones of our world to recognize that only upon forgiveness, reconciliation and mutual respect can lasting peace be built."
ZE07091607 - 2007-09-16