Pope: U.S. should uphold traditional role of religion in public life

Published: 2008-04-16

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI, meeting at the White House with President George W. Bush, said it was important to preserve the traditional role of religion in American political and social life. Religious values helped forge "the soul of the nation" and should continue to inspire Americans as they face complex political and ethical issues today, he said. The pope spoke April 16 -- his 81st birthday -- at a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, where he was warmly welcomed by Bush and thousands of cheering well-wishers. It was the pontiff's first official encounter after arriving in Washington the day before. The pope smiled and beamed as the crowd sang an impromptu "Happy Birthday." The two leaders stood and listened to their respective national anthems, then a fife and drum corps played a medley of "Yankee Doodle" and other patriotic songs. Bush greeted the pope with the Latin phrase "Pax tecum" ("Peace be with you"), and said the entire country was moved and honored to have the pope spend "this special day" with them.

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