Pope Urges Full Religious Freedom in Turkey

Vatican City: January 08, 2010, (PCTV Newsdesk)

While Catholics in Turkey enjoyreligious freedom, they are still waiting for civil juridical recognition,Benedict XVI pointed out to the nation's new envoy to the Holy See.

The Pope discussed relations between the two states today upon receivingin audience Ambassador Kenan Gursoy. The Pontiff also touched upon his tripto Turkey in 2006, and the country's role in resolving conflict in theMiddle East.

The Holy Father noted that Turkey and the Holy See established diplomaticrelations almost 50 years ago. While he acknowledged that "much has beenachieved" during the past years, the Pontiff expressed a desire to continuemaking the ties between the two sides "deeper and stronger."

Noting that the Christian communities in Turkey "appreciate the freedom ofworship that is guaranteed by the Constitution," Benedict XVI noted thatthe Church is still waiting for juridical recognition.

"This would help her to enjoy full religious freedom," the Pope said, "andto make an even greater contribution to society."

According to the Pontiff, the Christian communities in Turkey, while asmall minority, contribute "to the well-being of their fellow citizens,especially through involvement in charitable activity and healthcare."

He noted as examples the work of the La Paix and St. Georges hospitals inIstanbul to assist the poor.

"In order that these worthy endeavors may flourish, I am sure yourGovernment will continue to do what it can to see that they receivewhatever support may be needed," the Holy Father stated.

According to the Holy See's Statistical Yearbook, in this country ofapproximately 72 million inhabitants, 99% are Muslims. Catholics numberabout 32,000, or 0.04% of the population.

Benedict XVI underlined the "significant contribution" Christianity hasmade to Turkey, and noted that Christians are "proud to play their part,conscious of their ancient heritage."

In 2006, the Pontiff visited Turkey in response to an invitation of theEcumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I.

Dialogue

In his address to the nation's ambassador, the Holy Father said his tripwas the first as Pope to a "predominantly Islamic country," and that he wasgrateful for the opportunity to "express my esteem for Muslims."

He said that during his visit to Turkey he was also able to "reiterate thecommitment of the Catholic Church to carry forward interreligious dialoguein a spirit of mutual respect and friendship, bearing joint witness to thefirm faith in God that characterizes Christians and Muslims, and strivingto know one another better so as to strengthen the bonds of affectionbetween us."

"It is my fervent prayer that this process will lead to greater trustbetween individuals, communities, and peoples, especially in the troubledareas of the Middle East," Benedict XVI added.

The Pope called Turkey, a secular democratic state that is geographicallyplaced between Europe and Asia, a "bridge between Islam and the West."

He said the country is perfectly situation "to make a significantcontribution to the effort to bring peace and stability to the MiddleEast."

The Holy Father said the Holy See has taken note "numerous initiatives"Turkey has already undertaken in this regard, "and is eager to supportfurther efforts to put an end to long-standing conflicts in the region."

"As history has so often shown," the Pontiff continued, "territorialdisputes and ethnic rivalries can only be satisfactorily resolved when thelegitimate aspirations of each party are duly taken into account, pastinjustices acknowledged and, when possible, repaired."

Benedict XVI then assured the envoy of the "high priority that the HolySee gives to the search for just and lasting solutions to all the conflictsof the region, and of its readiness to place its diplomatic resources atthe service of peace and reconciliation."

News source: www.zenit.org