Pope Benedict’s first visit to Rome city administration

(March 9, 2009) While condemning all forms of intolerance and discrimination against immigrants, Pope Benedict on Monday also underscored the need for respect for legality and the rules of coexistence. The Pope made the remarks during his first visit to Rome’s Capitol Hill, or Campidoglio, the headquarters of Rome administration. Present among them were Rome’s mayor, Gianni Allemano, the Vicar of Rome diocese Cardinal Agostino Vallini, and other officials of Rome administration. “This, our city, like the rest of Italy and the entire humanity, is today faced with unprecedented cultural, social and economic challenges due to profound transformations and numerous changes in the last few decades,” the Pope told a special session of Rome city’s council presided by Mayor Alemanno. “As a result of being populated by people from other nations and diverse cultures and religious traditions, Rome as a result already has the face of a multiethnic and multireligious metropolis, where integration at times is difficult and complex,” said the Pope who is also the bishop of Rome. He said that in this situation the Catholic Church will always provide its contribution to find ways to protect the fundamental rights of the person while respecting legality. “Drawing new inspiration from the ancient roots of its history formed by ancient law and the Christian faith,” Pope Benedict said, “Rome will find the strength call on all to respect the rules of civil coexistence and reject every form of intolerance and discrimination.” Pope Benedict also addressed a large group of Romans gathered in the square outside the city hall saying that after having spent numerous years in Rome he feels a little bit Roman, but added that he feels more Roman being their bishop.