Pope says Germany Proves Validity of Western Social Order
(05 Dec 09 - RV) The majestic strains of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio in the magnificent
setting of the Sistine Chapel, on Friday night Pope Benedict was given an early Christmas
present from his fellow countrymen in a concert preformed by the Munich Chamber Orchestra
and the choir of the Cathedral of Augsburg.
Expressing
his thanks to the musicians and the people of Germany represented by President of
the Federal Republic Horts Kohler, Pope Benedict recalled the two important anniversaries
of modern German history being celebrated this year: 60 years since the signing into
law of the nation’s Constitution, known as the Basic Law and 20 years since the fall
of the Berlin Wall.
Referring to the latter the Pope described Communism
in Eastern Europe as a ‘long and painful night of violence' that led to the ''nihilism
and the emptiness of souls''.
He recalled with joy the collapse of the Berlin
Wall, “a frontier of death, which for many years - he said - had divided our country
and had forcibly separated men, families, neighbours and friends.''
“In
the communist dictatorship, there was no action that would have been deemed evil in
itself and always immoral. What served the objectives of the party was good, but could
be as inhumane”.
Pope Benedict said the history of Post-war Germany is
proof that the Western social order is ''better'' and ''more 'humanitarian'' than
this .
The Pope pointed out that German’s owe this a large part in the
Basic Law which he said has been essential in contributing to the peaceful development
of Germany over the past six decades.''
This is because he said it urges men
to prioritize their, responsibility' before God, 'human dignity, respect for marriage
and family as the foundation of every society ', as well as' to have regard and deep
respect for all that is sacred to others.''
Pope Benedict XVI concluded with
a prayer that the citizens of Germany – who were responsible for the spiritual and
political renewal in the aftermath of National Socialism and Second World War - can
continue to work for construction of a free and civil society”.