Media Release: Joseph Ratzinger

The Melbourne Catholic Commission for Justice, Development and Peace congratulates Joseph Ratzinger on his appointment to lead the Catholic Church. MCCJDP Executive Officer, Shaun Cannon, says that a change of leadership inevitably brings with it opportunity.

“The appointment of Cardinal Ratzinger by his fellow Cardinals sends a clear message to the Christian and wider community that the direction in which Pope John Paul II has taken the Catholic Church during his papacy was strongly supported. A close ally of John Paul II, the newly ordained Pope Benedict XVI will, nevertheless, bring with him his own agenda to the papacy. For a Catholic Commission concerned with justice, development and peace, we hope that Pope Benedict lends his now considerable profile to supporting the rights of indigenous communities, the rights of refugees, and the rights of those impoverished and marginalised within our community. Issues related to social justice are at the forefront of catholic social teaching. The MCCJDP encourages the Holy Father to be a strong advocate of those most in need.”