Britain's ambassador on Pope's speech to diplomats

(Vatican Radio) A focus on the family, a call for a culture of encounter and an emphasis on the rule of law to end violence and conflict. Those were three points from Pope Francis’ s speech to the diplomatic corps on Monday that particularly struck Britain’s ambassador to the Holy See, Nigel Baker. Noting the positive tone of the Pope’s remarks, Ambassador Baker told us he was impressed by the Pope’s vision as a pastor, deeply concerned about the joys and sufferings of people in many difficult circumstances and different national contexts.

Listen to Philippa Hitchen’s interview with Ambassador Nigel Baker:

The first thing he said, right at the beginning, addressing us as a pastor, concerned for the joys and sufferings of humanity……

The positive nature of the message, he talks about confidence in the future….despite the obvious things that he touched on that are problematic….

For me there were three particular themes, firstly the family…..how the language of the family is the language of peace…

The second theme, the need to be open to dialogue and encounter, which means especially reconciliation I think…..we must always be open to that and I was struck by his reference to Korea….

And the third theme I thought was the rule of law to bring peace and end violence…..