The European Project is being questioned on many fronts and that is why world leaders want to to reflect on it. The Vatican also wants to participate in this reflection, which is why it has organized the conference “(Re)Thinking Europe.”
MSGR. PAUL RICHARD GALLAGHER
Secretary for relations with States
'Because maybe dialogue is what is sometimes missing. There are many words, many meetings but, as we all know, meeting and talking is not dialogue. We firmly believe that for an affective and effective dialogue is needed here to revive Europe.'
Nationalism, separatism and identity are topics that will be on the table during the meeting this weekend, which brings together European personalities from the field of politics, the university world and the Church. Presented with Brexit and several other independent movements at this time, the European bishops invite everyone to understand the terms well.
CARD. REINHARD MARX
President COMECE
'When you have the idea that your nation is higher, is better than other nations that is not Christian. That's not according to the Christian faith. When you say, 'love your neighbor like yourself, that's Christian.''
MSGR. PAUL RICHARD GALLAGHER
Secretary for Relations with States
'There is a healthy nationalism that usually refers to a sense of patriotism. We always encourage this. Because when we speak of populism and nationalism the truth is compromised in some way. In populism, politicians present what the people would like to hear, but not necessarily the whole truth. Nationalism, as Cardinal Marx has said, tends to exalt, to the detriment of others, certain aspects of national life.'
European bishops remember that the Catholic Church has always supported the European project, because it goes beyond borders and speaks of a greater unity.
