European Christianity
That’s the root of a major problem on that continent, the European Union’s refusal to officially recognize its Christian heritage. That heritage was at the core of Benedict’s message to Germany on his recent visit, where he emphasized the importance of teaching each new generation about its faith and values.
And now, a turnaround. They’re actually celebrating it! Here’s the Vatican Information Service release:
The Holy See will once again participate in the celebration of European Heritage Days, an initiative of the Council of Europe in which more than 40 countries on the continent take part. The celebrations this year will take place on Sunday, September 24.
The Pontifical Commission for the Cultural Patrimony of the Church, the Vatican Museums and the Pontifical Commission of Sacred Archeology are all collaborating in the event.
On September 24, entrance to the Vatican Museums will be free, and visitors will have the opportunity of seeing the recently-restored Christian Museum of Pope Benedict XIV.
 All catacombs in Rome that are normally open to the public will also be free of charge. At the San Callisto Catacombs on the Old Appian Way a photographic exhibition will be inaugurated entitled “Charity, solidarity and the catacombs.”
Maybe it will draw a bigger crowd than, say, back when John Paul II tried so hard to get the European Commission to merely admit they had a Christian heritage in their charter.
“Charity, solidarity and the catacombs.” That covers a lot.
