“In fact, it is fundamental, on the one hand, to insist on the distinction between the political realm and that of religion in order to preserve both the religious freedom of citizens and the responsibility of the State towards them; and, on the other hand, to become more aware of the irreplaceable role of religion for the formation of consciences and the contribution which it can bring to—among other things—the creation of a basic ethical consensus within society,” the Pontiff stressed.
“My greatest concern," the Pope went on, "is for young people." Many of them "are suffering from a loss of connection to family life," others are abandoned on the margins "and often left to themselves, they are vulnerable and must come to terms on their own with a reality that often overwhelms them."
Under a laïcité positive, the Church and the State must cooperate “to offer them a sound educational environment and to encourage them to respect and assist others if they are to develop serenely towards the age of responsibility.”
The gap between rich and poor was also an item of concern for Pope Benedict: “I am also concerned by the social situation in the Western world, marked sadly by a surreptitious widening of the distance between rich and poor. I am certain that just solutions can be found that go beyond the necessary immediate assistance and address the heart of the problems, so as to protect the weak and promote their dignity.” The Church offers her help in this arena, the Pope said, “but it is the State as such which must enact laws in order to eradicate unjust structures.”
The Holy Father also expressed his concern for "the state of our planet," highlighting how "With great generosity, God has entrusted to us the world that he created. We must learn to respect and protect it more. It seems to me that the time has come for more constructive proposals so as to guarantee the good of future generations.”
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Lastly the Pope touched on the responsibility that France has to “bear witness—in accord with her noble tradition—to human rights and to their promotion for the good of individuals and society,” as it holds the presidency of the European Union.
“When Europeans see and experience personally that the inalienable rights of the human person from conception to natural death – rights to free education, to family life, to work, and naturally those concerned with religion – when Europeans see that these rights, which form an inseparable unity, are promoted and respected, then they will understand fully the greatness of the enterprise that is the European Union, and will become active artisans of the same,” the Pope encouraged.
Following his address, Pope Benedict traveled back to the apostolic nunciature where he had lunch in private.