VATICAN CITY, MARCH 17, 2010 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI accepted today honorary citizenship of the Italian municipality of Romano Canavese, encouraging its citizens to continue in their long history of faith, never losing trust in God.
The Pope received the honor today from dignitaries of the municipality who had gathered in a room adjacent to Paul VI Hall.
He expressed particular satisfaction at becoming a citizen of Romano Canavese «because it is the place that gave birth to my very dear secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, whom I have known and esteemed for so many years, especially when I was prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.»
The Holy Father pointed to the city’s history of faith, «which began with the blood of martyrs, among whom is St. Solutore, and reaches down to our days.»
«On this occasion,» he said, «I renew my invitation to you to guard and cultivate the genuine values of your tradition and your culture, which are rooted in the Gospel.»
The Pontiff encouraged them to witness to faith in the Lord, defense of the family and a spirit of solidarity.
«Always trust in the help of God, who never abandons his children and is close with his loving concern to all those who work for goodness, peace and justice,» he added.
He concluded by imparting «to each one of you and your fellow citizens, my fellow citizens now, a special apostolic blessing.»
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Full text: www.zenit.org/article-28667?l=english
