New U.S. ambassador to Vatican arrives in Rome

Published: 2005-10-24

ROME (CNS) -- The new U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, Francis Rooney, arrived in Rome Oct. 23, hoping to meet quickly with Pope Benedict XVI. The ambassador's job officially begins once he has presented his letters of credential to the pope. Arriving at the Rome airport with his wife, Kathleen, Rooney told reporters that "at the core" of the U.S.-Vatican diplomatic relations "lies a common vision and task -- to promote and defend the dignity of every man, woman and child." "The United States is committed to the vigorous defense of human rights, the promotion of religious freedom and the advancement of dialogue and tolerance among people of different faiths and cultures," said Rooney, 51. The new ambassador said cooperative efforts between the U.S. and the Vatican have helped spread freedom, democracy and respect for human rights around the world, but "there is still much to be done to make our world a better place." The U.S. Senate confirmed Rooney's appointment as ambassador Oct. 7.

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