Pope Leo encourages conservative politicians to defend Christian heritage
Caroline MolloyPope Leo XIV encouraged a group of conservative politicians this week to preserve the principles of Western cultural and political thought, calling Europe’s Christian heritage “essential” to protecting the rights of “every human person, from conception to natural death.”
The Holy Father made the remarks in an address to the European Conservatives and Reformists Group of the European Parliament during its visit to the Vatican for a conference Dec. 9 – 12, according to the Vatican Press Office.
Pope Leo began his address by welcoming the group to the Vatican.
“I am pleased to have this opportunity to greet your Delegation on the occasion of your participation in the ECR Group Conference being held during these days here in Rome,” he said.
He went on to thank those present for their service, reminding them that “to hold any high office within society comes with the responsibility to advance the common good.”
“I especially encourage you, therefore, never to lose sight of the forgotten ones, those on the margins, those whom Jesus Christ called ‘the least’ among us,” he added.
Invoking St. Thomas More
Acknowledging there are disagreements even between the conservatives in attendance, the Pontiff noted that debating political matters with civility is a valuable way of bearing witness to a shared belief in each person’s dignity in the eyes of God.
“I invite you, then, to look to Saint Thomas More, the patron of politicians, whose wisdom, courage, and defence of conscience are a timeless inspiration for those who seek to foster the wellbeing of society,” the Holy Father said.
Europe’s identity is inherently Judeo-Christian
The “European identity,” Pope Leo said, “can only be understood and promoted in reference to its Judeo-Christian roots.” But “protecting the religious legacy of this continent” benefits all, he argued.
Christianity has contributed much to Europe and will continue to do so, he said.
