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POPE-ITALY May-18-2006 (270 words) With photo. xxxi
Pope tells Italian bishops to make their voices heard for common good
By Cindy Wooden
Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The day after Italy swore in a center-left government with some ministers promising to push policies opposed by the Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI told the country's bishops they had a responsibility to make their voices heard.
The church "not only recognizes and respects" the autonomy of church and state, he said May 18, but it is pleased when each segment of society is allowed to fulfill its role and responsibility.
Part of the church's duty in society is to help people see what public policies are helpful or harmful to the dignity of individuals and to the common good, he told the Italian bishops' conference holding its annual meeting at the Vatican.
By reminding politicians and citizens of the enduring value of basic ethical norms, "we do not commit any violation against the secularity of the state, but rather we contribute to guaranteeing and promoting the dignity of the person and the common good of society," the pope said.
Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi and leaders of his coalition government, who were sworn in May 17, have promised electors they would promote some type of legislation granting legal recognition to "civil unions," perhaps also including those of gay partners.
Pope Benedict told the bishops that by calling for respect for ethical norms, including respect for human life at every stage and support for the family built on the marriage of a man and a woman, "we are not imposing useless burdens, but helping (people) to advance along the path of life and authentic freedom."
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Copyright (c) 2006 Catholic News Service/USCCB. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed.
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