Pope Benedict XVI receives Governor-General of Australia
Pope Benedict XVI received the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, this
Wednesday at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. A Communiqué from the Press Office
of the Holy See says the Pope and the Governor General held cordial discussions, during
the course of which they touched on a number of topics, including the contribution
of the Catholic Church to Australian society, the treatment of refugees, and other
themes of mutual interest were covered.
The Press Office statement goes on
to say they discussed the current international and regional situation, with particular
reference to natural disasters and environmental problems as well as interreligious
dialogue.
After her meeting with the Holy Father, Bryce met with The Cardinal
Secretary of State, Tarcisio Bertone, who was accompanied by the secretary for Relations
with States, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti.