The witness of SS. Cyril and Methodius, co-patrons of Europe, was recalled today by Pope Benedict XVI who received in audience the President of Bulgaria Georgi Parvanov and the members of his entourage, including some representatives from the Orthodox and Catholic Church of the country. "Their legacy - said the Pope - has marked the life of Slavic people, their example has sustained the witness and the faith of the many Christians who, over the centuries, have dedicated their life to the spreading of the salvation message besides working for a fair and equal society." "May their spiritual witness be kept alive in your country so that Bulgaria can effectively contribute to the building of a Europe that is faithful to its Christian roots. Indeed, the values of solidarity and justice, of freedom and peace - concluded the Pope - are further strengthen and confirmed by Christ's teaching."

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