Holy See and Costa Rica to strengthen collaboration

On Monday Pope Benedict XVI received the president of Costa Rica, Laura Chinchilla Miranda, in audience at the Vatican. Sworn in as president on May 8, 2010, Ms. Chinchilla Miranda is Costa Rica’s first female Head of State. She holds a Master’s Degree from Georgetown University in Public Policy and is a vocal supporter of the right to life and the family. Listen:

During their cordial discussions the parties highlighted the good relations that exist between the Holy See, the local Church and the State, expressing the hope that they may be strengthened by an Agreement respectful of the identity of the country and of the healthy autonomy and collaboration between civil and ecclesiastical authorities. Mention was then made of the special contribution the Church makes through her educational, social and charitable institutions. Finally attention turned to the importance of continuing to protect the fundamental dignity of human beings, from the moment of conception.

One of Latin American’s oldest democracies, Costa Rica has consistently been among the top countries in the region in the Human Development Index and ranks as the "greenest" country in the world. Approximately 76% of its 4 million population are Catholics divided into eight dioceses and one archdiocese, the Archdiocese of San José. The nation is entrusted to the intercession of Our Lady of Angels.