Pope Benedict XVI meets the Ambassador of Hungary

(December 02, 2010) The Catholic Church, like other religious communities, has a significant role in the growth of the Hungarian society. It has given much support with its educational institutions, together with her help in the field of culture, and has provided social assistance which is useful to Hungary. The Church hopes to continue her support to the state and enhance her service for the good of mankind and for the development of the country, said Pope Benedict XVI. He was addressing the new Ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See, Gábor Györiványi, at the presentation of the letters of Credentials to the Pope. The Pontiff said that following the resumption of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Republic of Hungary in 1990, it was possible to develop a new confidence for active and constructive dialogue with the Catholic Church. He added that the Catholic faith is undoubtedly part of the basic pillars of Hungarian history. The Pope recollected how in year 1000, the young Hungarian prince Stefano received the royal crown from Pope Sylvester II and received the mandate to proclaim the faith in Jesus Christ to this great land that has led to the personal piety, the sense of justice and human virtues of this great king into their traditions. Further, the pontiff said that marriage and family are a crucial foundation for the healthy development of civil society, countries and peoples and the Church can not approve legislative initiatives involving the enhancement of alternative models of married life and family. Pope Benedict concluded saying that the collaboration between the State and the Catholic Church in diverse fields will grow in the future and bring benefits for all.