This afternoon, Benedict XVI met with Catholic Educators at the Catholic University of America. Education has long been a subject that is dear to the heart of this Holy Father. Ordained a priest in 1951, he received a doctorate and a licentiate in theology from the University of Munich, where he studied until 1957. He taught dogma and fundamental theology at the University of Freising in 1958-59, and then lectured at the University of Bonn, 1959-1969, at Munster, 1963-66, and at Tubingen from 1966 to 1969. In 1969 he was appointed professor of dogma and of the history of dogmas at the University of Regensburg, where he also served as vice president until 1977.
On November 25, 1981, Pope John Paul II named Cardinal Ratzinger prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, President of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and of the International Theological Commission. As the guiding light on doctrinal issues during Pope John Paul II's pontificate, Pope Benedict XVI was one of the most respected, influential and controversial members of the College of Cardinals. He was a major figure on the Vatican stage for nearly a quarter of a century.
On April 19, 2005, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected as the 265th Pope and the first German pope in 948 years. He adopted the name Benedict XVI, in honor of St. Benedict, the founder of Western monasticism, and of Benedict XV, pope during World War I and a promoter of peace.
Present at this gathering were Presidents of Catholic Universities across the United States, but also some the Catholic Educators who work with parishes across the country. Students and educators alike are inspired by the words of the Holy Father. Like any person who is able to be close to an idol, this visit was a great witness to the students of CUA and an inspiration to those who have accepted the responsibility to educate and form our young people in faith.
Following his encounter with Catholic educators, the Holy Father met with a number of inter-religious leaders from various faith traditions which are represented in the United States. In the rotunda of the John Paul II Cultural Centre, the Holy Father spoke to these leaders and received their greetings and tokens of peace. This was indeed a moment of building inter-personal relationships between Benedict XVI and the leaders of the various faith communities represented; it was also an important moment in building relationships between the Roman Catholic Church and these various faith traditions.
- Address of His Holiness during the meeting with representatives of other religions in the Rotunda of the John Paul II Cultural Center, Washington, DC, April 17, 2008
After this moment of exchange, the Holy Father moved to another section of the John Paul II Cultural Centre to address members of the Jewish community. The Holy Father wanted to share with them a special greeting on the occasion of the upcoming celebration of Pesah (Passover) which will take place this coming Saturday.
- Words of His Holiness during the meeting with representatives of the Jewish community at the John Paul II Cultural Center, Washington, DC, April 17, 2008
- Message of His Holiness to the Jewish community on the occasion of the feast of Pesah, April 17, 2008
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