Wednesday 24 March 2010
A NATO Defense College delegation, composed of 140 people, had the honour to attend the General Papal Audience at the Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI received the Course Members from Senior Course 116 and NRCC-3 and their families. Faculty Advisors and NDC Staff also attended.
Benedict XVI greeted the NDC delegation warmly and gave his blessing to all the participants. The Papal Audience was an opportunity for Course Members to reflect on the importance of their personal commitment: many of them, in fact, have participated or will be involved as senior officers or civil servants in peacekeeping operations in very sensitive areas of the world.
After the Audience, Course Members, Staff and families visited the Vatican Museums. They had the chance to see the Sistine Chapel and world famous artistic treasures.
The Papal Audience was not only a moving event for Catholics, but also an invaluable experience for all members of SC 116 and NRCC-3, regardless of their faith.
After this unique day, the Course Members left the Vatican with renewed motivation to carry out their daily duties. The visit was also an example of exchange among different religions, based on tolerance and mutual respect.
