The hearing at the Holy See, conceded by Benedict XVI to the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, Hans-Henning Horstmann, was a chance to go back on the recent apostolic visit to Bavaria. On thanking all the men who fostered the successful journey to Bavaria, Benedict XVI recalled that "If the community grows and men strengthen in goodness through the announcement of the Gospel, the relationships and life in common will also improve, while the citizens will be more inclined to accept responsibility in relation to common good". Moreover, the Pope took into consideration the universal mission of St. Peter’s throne, pointing out the commitment of the Church, concerning the Christians living in all countries of the world as well as the goodness of all men, "independently of their culture, language or religious affiliation". "The Church does not force anyone to believe, underlined the Pope, since faith in Jesus Christ, which the Church announces, can exist in freedom only". Tolerance also derives from that principle, which anybody "cannot misunderstand as indifference. Real tolerance always starts from respect for the others, men and God’s creation". (to be continued)
