Actual text of the the Vatican Press Release - (thanks Coffee Cat)
Text of press release/statement:
We're delighted to host this conference to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Centesimus Annus, bringing together world leaders, including US Senator Sanders, Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa, Bolivian President Evo Morales, Academicians of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences such as its President Margaret Archer, and leading scholars such as Professor Daniel Finn, Professor Jeffrey Sachs etc., to examine and discuss changes in politics, economics, and culture in the world these last 25 years in the light of Pope Francis' new encyclical Laudato si'. Our intention is socio-political in the highest sense of the term, because according to art. 1 of our Statutes, the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences was established by the Holy Father John Paul II on 1 January 1994 with the aim of promoting the study and progress of the social sciences, primarily economics, sociology, law and political science.
Title I - Constitution and Aims of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences
Art. 1
The Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences was established by the Holy Father John Paul II on 1 January 1994 (AAS 86 , 213), with the aim of promoting the study and progress of the social sciences, primarily economics, sociology, law and political science. The Academy, through an appropriate dialogue, thus offers the Church the elements which she can use in the development of her social doctrine, and reflects on the application of that doctrine in contemporary society. The Academy, which is autonomous, maintains a close relationship with the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace.
✠ Marcelo Sánchez Sorondo
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Here are Coffee observations that are on point:
You had to apply to be invited to this important event. Bernie obviously applied. Many important world leaders and scholars applied. Bernie was personally invited.
The press release from the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences touts Bernie's name FIRST on the list of attendees. Obviously, this organization is very proud to have him attend. Firstly, they invited him. Secondly, the are using his name prominently in their press materials that promote the event.
It appears that the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences is very happy to have Bernie there and is promoting his involvement. I think all is well.
There is one person, a conservative Bishop, who has come out to criticize Bernie, after this exciting announcement was made. She can have her opinion. She sounds politically motivated to me.
It is undeniable that the organization, as a whole, wants Bernie there. They invited him above many other applicants and he's a part of their publicity effort to spark interest in this important event.
I work in public relations, and have done so for many years. I've written hundreds of press releases--and clearly the organization as a whole is very happy with Bernie!
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