” “”Justice in the presence of God” is the Biblical verse which is the subject of the 95th Katholikentag, due in Saarbrücken from May 24th to 28th. In over one thousand events, these words will shine with the light of topicality for Germany, Europe and the world. The focus of the meeting is the responsibility of Catholic laymen in politics, economics and in the social sphere. "This Katholikentag will place lots of emphasis on the European dimension of such responsibility", explains Thomas Jansen, member of the Central Committee of German Catholics, in the leading article published on today’s issue of SIR Europa. The focus of the debate, among other things, will be the future of the European "social model" and peace: "If the European Union will be judged by the standard of justice comments Jansen -, new questions will arise, partly because it is based on an ethical mission of reconciliation and peace, and it should have guaranteed reconciliation and peace among countries that had been enemies in the past". "What are the implications of this ethic assumption, for instance on the European policy towards the Balkans which badly need help, which are still searching for peace?", asks Jansen: "And what responsibility will and can Europe take on towards justice and peace in the world and for the world?" Today’s SIR free on line also contains an item on the Cei Assembly. Since early 2006, a daily newscast service in English is also available on SIR Europa (old.agensir.it).” “
