Pope is 'beacon for freedom' in world, says U.S. ambassador

Published: 2003-10-14

ROME (CNS) -- The United States is joining in the celebrations of Pope John Paul II's 25th anniversary, convinced that the pope has been a "beacon for freedom" in a troubled world, said U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican Jim Nicholson. "I think the pope is revered in America, and not just by Catholics," Nicholson said Oct. 14 in an interview with Catholic News Service. "The man has a broad draw, a sort of intangible moral magnetism about him that brings admirers from far beyond the Catholic religion," he said. "He has been one of the most compelling figures of the last century. He is a beacon for freedom and for truth and for the dignity of man and has been a great friend, ally and collaborator of the United States ever since his papacy began," Nicholson said. Nicholson was a member of the special U.S. delegation to the pope's silver anniversary events at the Vatican. The delegation was led by Columba Bush, wife of Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and sister-in-law of President George W. Bush.

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