Pope Leo XIV welcomed senior representatives of Aid to the Church in Need to the Apostolic Palace last week, praising the international Catholic charity for its tireless defence of religious freedom and its closeness to persecuted Christians around the world.
The audience brought together the charity’s president, Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, executive president Regina Lynch, senior management of ACN International, and national directors from nearly 30 countries.
Among them was Bernard Toutounji, national director for Aid to the Church in Need Australia and New Zealand, who was privileged to greet the Pope and present gifts on behalf of the benefactors of Australia and New Zealand.
In his address, delivered in the Hall of Popes, Pope Leo reminded the delegates that the right to religious freedom “is not optional but essential… a cornerstone of any just society.” He warned that when this freedom is denied, “trust gives way to fear, suspicion replaces dialogue, and oppression breeds violence.”
Citing his predecessor’s Easter message, Pope Leo added: “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others.”
The Pope commended ACN’s long-standing witness through its Religious Freedom in the World Report, which will be officially released on October 21, calling it “a powerful instrument for raising awareness… giving voice to the voiceless and revealing the hidden suffering of many.”
Following the address, each national director was invited to meet the Holy Father personally.
Mr Toutounji presented three gifts symbolising the faith and generosity of Australian and New Zealand supporters: a painting of the Three Sisters rock formation in the Blue Mountains – near ACN’s national office – painted by a local artist, Christopher Vidal; a box of Haigh’s chocolates; and a handmade card created by the Toutounji children for the Pope, featuring drawings and prayers.
“To stand before the successor of St Peter and hear his encouragement was a moment of grace,” Mr Toutounji said.
“We carried with us the prayers and sacrifices of our benefactors and presented them to the Holy Father. This meeting reaffirmed our bond with the universal Church and our mission to serve the suffering Church.”
FULL STORY
Pope Leo XIV Meets Aid to the Church in Need Delegation (Aid to the Church in Need)
Pope Leo XIV’s address to ACN International (Aid to the Church in Need)
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