Statement by the President of the European Commission
José Manuel Barroso
Dear friends of "Together for Europe",For several years now "Together in diversity" has been the slogan of the European Union and "Together for Europe" embodies just that! "Together for Europe" stands for unity, respect and solidarity – values that are at the heart of our European project. It is my pleasure to assume the high patronage of your event.
We live in times of great political, economic, and social challenges. I am encouraged to see what has brought Europe closer together. Europe is determined to pursue a sustainable approach that asks individuals to take responsibility for their community and likewise generates solidarity by the community with the individual. This holistic approach to societal challenges is central also to the Christian message.
Europe needs people who stand up for social peace, reach out to the poor, create a sense of solidarity and take responsibility in society. The activities in which you are involved – today here in Brussels and all year round across Europe – put these values into practice. I sincerely welcome your commitment to the European project and to our European society.
The intellectual exchange between the Church and the European Institutions has been and continues to be profoundly important to me. Europe needs a soul. And our dialogue with churches and religious communities is essential in nourishing it.
In this spirit, I wish you an enriching experience and hope that every one of you will take away from this gathering a little spark that will kindle a fire back home.
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