By Rachel Sanderson
Pope John Paul, reflecting Vatican disappointment that Italy’s nominee had to step down from the EU executive because of his religious beliefs, has repeated his call for Europe to remember its Christian roots. The 84-year-old pontiff made the statement a day after Rocco Buttiglione, a devout Catholic and close friend of the Pope, withdrew from the incoming EU Commission after his views on homosexuality and women sparked an unprecedented crisis.
The Pope first dived into the debate this week saying it had to be resolved by showing respect for all points of view. “To take into account the Christian roots of the European continent means to avail oneself of a spiritual patrimony that remains fundamental for future developments of the Union,” the Polish pope told thousands of pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday.
Read the original article at: Reuters
