VATICAN CITY, SEP 2, 2004 (VIS) - This morning the Holy Father received the Letters of Credence from the new ambassador of Guatemala, Juan Gavarrete Soberon. The Pope recalled his three visits to the country, in 1983 and 1996, "when there was still a painful internal armed conflict which caused so many deaths" and in 2002, "once the peace accord was signed" when, he said, "I canonized Brother Pedro de San Jose de Betancurt."
"In the messages that I gave on these visits," he said, "I wanted to express my affection for the beloved Guatemalan people, but also my concerns due to the human and social problems that your country was experiencing. I am happy to say that the defense of human life, from conception till natural death, is constitutionally recognized in your nation, and that is a seal of honor for Guatemala. In this field, as in others, when civil legislation assumes the principles of natural law we move toward peace and the progress of peoples."
In response to "the desire of your government to fight corruption in all forms," John Paul II told the diplomat, "transparency and integrity in public administration promote a climate of credibility and confidence in the citizens under your authority and create the foundations for a just and appropriate development."
"Unfortunately, even though the armed internal conflict has ended, Guatemala cannot ignore the violence that has affected many people." In this context, he recalled Bishop Juan Gerardi, assassinated in 1998, "whose case has not yet been cleared up, as well as those of a number of priests and catechists. No effort must be spared in order to achieve peace in the country and reconciliation among all citizens."
The Pope referred also the problem of poverty: "The effort to attend to the needs of the disadvantaged," he emphasized, "must be considered a fundamental priority. I am pleased that your government considers it a objective to which to dedicate many efforts and resources. Among those who suffer this social blemish many are indigenous. … Accelerated transformations in the international economy and decreases in the price of agricultural products have put many of them in a difficult situation. The Church, mother and faithful teacher of her mission, is close to the many rural families that are living the consequences of this crisis."
CD/CREDENTIALS/GUATEMALA:GAVARRETE VIS 20040902 (390)
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