Fr. Łukasz Bankowski – Vatican
Europe, a ‘bastion of dialogue’
As COMECE President Bishop Mariano Crociata noted, the meeting took place in a cordial and direct atmosphere, characteristic of the pontificate style of Leo XIV. One of the main topics of discussion was Europe’s role in a world marked by conflicts, tensions, and growing polarization.
“Europe remains a bastion of international dialogue. At its roots, the European Union was a project of peace and continues to be called to foster dialogue and cooperation among nations,” it was emphasized during the press conference after the audience.
The bishops pointed out that contemporary threats to European unity include populism and a departure from the logic of multilateral cooperation, Vatican News reports.
The Church wants to support the European project
The hierarchs recalled that the European integration project, developed after World War II by the founding fathers of the European community, had not only a political and economic dimension but also a moral one.
“It is not only about the commitments enshrined in European treaties, but also about the ethical responsibility for building peace and a culture of dialogue,” the COMECE representatives noted.
During the meeting, it was repeatedly emphasized that the Church does not want to engage in current political disputes but has a duty to recall the values that form the foundation of the European community.
Need for protection of Christians
One of the most important topics raised during the meeting was the issue of growing hostility towards Christians in Europe. The COMECE bishops pointed out that in many countries it is increasingly difficult to publicly refer to Christian values, use religious symbols, or present arguments inspired by the Gospel in social and political debate.
In this context, the bishops informed the Holy Father about the initiative to appoint a special coordinator for combating hatred against Christians within European institutions. Currently, similar functions already exist for combating antisemitism and islamophobia.
As COMECE representatives emphasized, it is not only about protecting religious freedom but also about reminding that Christianity remains one of the foundations of European identity and culture.
Possible Papal visit to the European Parliament
The bishops also conveyed to the Holy Father the desire of many European circles for him to visit the institutions of the European Union, especially the European Parliament. “The Pope seems open to this possibility,” said Bishop Crociata.
During the audience, the bishops returned to plans for organizing a new edition of the “Rethinking Europe” initiative, which would bring together representatives of the Church, politics, academia, and civil society to reflect on the future of Europe in 2027.
