” “"The Church, experienced in humanity, never stops insisting that only by preserving and fully enhancing the heritage of values handed down by its ancestors, can Europe, respectful of the spiritual traditions that enrich it, write a fresh page of its history, by respecting man’s dignity and banning once and for all any abuse and violence against human rights". These are the words of Benedict XVI’s message, signed by the Secretary of State, card. Angelo Sodano, at the European Meeting of Christian Culture, which is in progress in Vienna, from today to May 5th, promoted by the Papal Council for culture in conjunction with the Patriarchate of Moscow. The meeting has been defined the "fruit of an encouraging cooperation" between the two church bodies with the support of the pro-East Foundation and its president, card. Christoph Schonbörn, archbishop of Vienna. "On many occasions reads the message the Supreme Pontiff did highlight how the peoples of the European Continent are challenged, in this day and age, by new questions about the meaning of life, the value of freedom and the future of Europe. In this respect, He has always called them to build their present and their future in the light of the ethic and moral values that have shone on their history over the centuries, while also treasuring the negative experiences of the past". Finally, the Pope wishes the European countries "will rediscover in Christ their common call at the service of peace and real world progress".” “
