Havana, Cuba, Feb 21, 2008 / 15:53 pm
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tariscio Bertone, who is visiting Cuba to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s historic visit, expressed his hope that the visit would renew Christian life and improve relations between the Church and the Cuban government.
After delivering a message from Pope Benedict XVI to the Cuban people, Cardinal Bertone encouraged the Cuban bishops to extend their pastoral work.
Commenting on the anniversary of John Paul II’s visit, the cardinal said he hoped it will be “a time of abundant grace and a special opportunity to boost intensive pastoral work” that will strengthen spiritual fruits and renew Christian life.
“I cherish the hope that the celebration of the anniversary of John Paul II’s visit in this blessed land,” the cardinal said, “will help give new impulse to the relations between the State and the Catholic Church in Cuba, so that, in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding, the Church will be able to fully accomplish its mission, which is strictly pastoral and at the service of the congregation, with the required freedom.”