VATICAN CITY, SEP 16, 2006 (VIS) - At the end of yesterday's ceremony at Castelgandolfo marking the resignation from the office of secretary of State of Cardinal Angelo Sodano, and the appointment of his successor, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Pope pronounced some off-the-cuff remarks.
After expressing his appreciation for Cardinal Sodano's competence and will to serve the Church, the Holy Father thanked all the collaborators of the Secretariat of State, present at the audience, and of pontifical representations around the world.
"I have learnt even more clearly," said the Pope, "how only this great collaborative network makes it possible to respond to the Lord's command: 'Confirma fratres tuos in fide'." It is thanks to such collaboration, he added, "that the Pope can ... accomplish his mission."
Benedict XVI highlighted how "this curial work is in fact pastoral activity in its most eminent sense, because it truly helps to guide the people of God."
The Pope told Cardinal Sodano how happy he was to have had his company on the recent papal visit to Bavaria, and he gave the outgoing secretary of State a copy of the Virgin of Altotting, "as a sign not only of my enduring gratitude but also of our communion in prayer. May the Virgin Mary always accompany you, protect and guide you. This is the expression of my sincere gratitude."
AC/GRATITUDE SODANO/... VIS 20060918 (240)
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