Bishop Yu Heung-sik Receives Congratulatory Message from President Moon: "I Will Do My Part for the Pope's Visit to North Korea" (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] President Moon Jae-in, a devout Catholic, sent a congratulatory message to Bishop Yoo Heung-sik, Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Daejeon, who was appointed as the first Korean Minister of the Vatican's Congregation for the Clergy. Bishop Yoo responded by pledging to do his best to facilitate Pope Francis's visit to North Korea.

In his message on the 12th, President Moon said, "This is not only a joyous occasion for the Korean Catholic Church but also uplifting news that enhances our country's prestige," expressing his congratulations.

On the 11th (local time), Pope Francis appointed Bishop Yoo as Minister of the Congregation for the Clergy and bestowed upon him the title of Archbishop. The Congregation for the Clergy, with a 500-year history, is a Vatican department that oversees all duties and lives of priests and deacons worldwide.

President Moon added, "It is especially meaningful as this year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Father Kim Dae-geon, the first Korean priest," and said, "I sincerely congratulate him along with the people."

He continued, "Like the Archbishop's pastoral motto, 'I am the light of the world (Lux Mundi),' I believe he will be a light for a world without discrimination and for comforting the poor," adding, "He has made special efforts for peace on the Korean Peninsula, so expectations are even higher."

Currently visiting the United Kingdom for the G7 Summit, President Moon personally revised the congratulatory message on-site and sent Park Soo-hyun, Chief of Public Communication, to the Sejong Diocese Office to deliver the message in person.

Archbishop Yoo, who received the message, said, "I deeply appreciate the sincere congratulations and the message," and added, "My appointment is a tremendous event occurring during the meaningful 200th anniversary of Father Kim Dae-geon's birth, representing the achievements built by the Korean Catholic martyrs."

He continued, "I will pray that Pope Francis's earnest wish to visit North Korea will be realized soon to contribute to peace on the Korean Peninsula and the world, and I will do all I can to fulfill my role."

Archbishop Yoo said, "During my audience with the Pope last April, I actively mentioned the visit to North Korea, and the Pope responded positively," adding, "I pray and ask that the Lord's blessings be abundant upon the Republic of Korea, its people, and President Moon."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.