March 15, 2013. (Romereports.com) The Vatican classified a smear campaign against newly elected Pope Francis as lies and defamation by an anti-clerical group.   

Bergoglio, as the Jesuit leader in Argentina at the time, was accused failing to protect two kidnapped priests during the so called 'Dirty War,' under Argentine Dictator Jorge Videla.  


FEDERICO LOMBARDI
Vatican Spokesperson
“These accusations are unfounded and have no reason, in any way, to cast a shadow on the figure of the new Pope.”

The Vatican also said the two kidnapped priests had later met with Bergoglio as the archbishop of Buenos Aires to celebrate a Mass together in harmony and agreement.

During the press conference, a Vatican spokesperson also confirmed that Pope Francis called the papal Nuncio soon after to his election to relay a special message for the Argentine people.

FEDERICO LOMBARDI
Vatican Spokesperson
“Let the bishops and faithful know that is is not necessary for them to come to Rome. Instead of spending so much on a trip, they should make a donation to the poor.”

The Pope will now prepare for a series of official events in the coming days. They informally notified all heads of state and religious leaders about Tuesday's Inauguration Mass, and said all would be welcome to attend. But they reaffirmed that Pope emeritus Benedict XVI would not be attending.

On Friday, he received a message from the chief rabbi in Rome, as well as other well wishers and heads of states who have congratulated him on his election.


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