Papal message for 450th anniversary of Rio de Janeiro

January 02, 2015

Pope Francis has sent a video message to the Brazilian people on the 450th anniversary of the founding of Rio de Janeiro, the nation’s second-largest city.

Recalling the city’s famed statue of Christ the Redeemer, the Pontiff asked what Christ sees as he looks upon the city. Christ sees “natural beauty” as well as “the contrast generated by great social inequalities: opulence and misery, injustice, violence,” he said in the message, which the Holy See Press Office released on January 1.

“Between selfish indifference and violent protest there is always another possible option: that of dialogue,” he continued. “Dialogue between generations, dialogue among the people, because we are all people … Everyone has something to contribute to constructing a more just and fraternal civilization.”

“I believe that everyone can learn much from the example of generosity and solidarity of the most simple people,” the Pope added.

 

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Further information:

• Video-messaggio del Santo Padre al popolo brasiliano in occasione dei festeggiamenti per il nuovo anno e per l’inizio delle celebrazioni per i 450 anni di Rio de Janeiro (Holy See Press Office)