On 27 November, during his official visit to Rome, Minister of State for Church and National Minority Relations of the Prime Minister’s Office attended the Pope’s usual Wednesday’s General Audience at St. Peter’s Square.

After the audience, Miklós Soltész also met with the Holy Father in person to whom he handed over a publication introducing churches refurbished with the support of the Government of Hungary. In reference to the Pope’s speech delivered during his tour of Asia in which he stressed the importance of creating peace, the Minister of State said the Hungarian government can contribute to building a civilisation of love and peace if it supports communities. Mr Soltész stressed the government believes that the refurbishment of churches, assisting churches in the fulfilment of public and social duties and supporting families raising children are key to the nation’s spiritual and moral renewal. This policy is now beginning to bear fruit as in recent years the number of marriages has increased in Hungary, while the number of abortions and divorces has decreased significantly, the Minister of State said. “Continue to protect life and families,” Pope Francis said in reply, happy to hear the Minister of State’s words. Mr Soltész also pointed out that the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress to be held in Budapest in September 2020 is a great honour and an opportunity for Hungary which Hungarians very much look forward to.

(MTI)