Civil, Religious Leaders Unite for Inauguration of 6th World Meeting of
Families.
(January 15, 2009) Both civil and religious authorities came together to point out
that the family constitutes the basis for the identity of the person and of society,
during Wednesday, January 14th opening of the 6th World Meeting of Families. During
the inauguration of this international event being attended by almost 10,000 persons,
Mexican President Felipe Calderón emphasized that in order to have a country with
greater personal security and freedom from drugs -- which he described as the slavery
of the 21st century -- it is necessary to strengthen the family. In analyzing the
struggle against drug trafficking, Calderón noted that many drug traffickers and people
living in violent circumstances have suffered from dysfunctional families. Cardinal
Ennio Antonelli, president of the Pontifical Council for the Family, for his part
told the participants from five continents: "We are many and one in virtue of Christ
and the Holy Spirit. [...] We represent different peoples and cultures of the People
of God; Catholic families of the Church and from civil society are here." Cardinal
Norberto Rivera Carrera, archbishop of Mexico City and host of the 6th World Meeting
of Families, recognized different attacks against the family, but assured everyone
that "the family continues as a standard-bearer of society. [...] Mexico opens its
doors to the world. Mexico, the country where Mary of Guadalupe appeared to St. Juan
Diego, is your family." The president of the Mexican episcopal conference, Bishop
Carlos Aguiar Retes, reaffirmed that the family is the patrimony of humanity and the
school of the faith. He warned, however, of dangers such as ethical relativism, poverty
and laws that are contrary to the family. During the event, Calderón sent a message
to Benedict XVI: In Mexico, we are waiting for you with open arms.