Speaking at a New Year’s meeting with representatives of churches, religious groups, and national minorities at the Presidential Palace, Nawrocki said, “Poland remains open to national minorities and all denominations. I feel responsible for all citizens of the Republic, no matter which church they pray in or what minority they come from.”
He underscored Poland’s tradition of openness and sovereignty, noting that in 1939, “representatives of all minorities defended their homeland.” He called for unity, encouraging prayers “for our common home, the Republic of Poland.”
“I am a proud Catholic,” Nawrocki added, “but my obligation is to protect all citizens and ensure their safety, well-being, and prosperity.”
Archbishop Tadeusz Wojda, head of Poland’s Episcopal Conference, emphasized that a society’s greatness is measured by its care for the vulnerable, including the sick, poor, and refugees. He urged public life to be guided by “the common good and respect for every citizen’s dignity.”
Bishop Andrzej Malicki, president of the Polish Ecumenical Council, said unity should be seen as a spiritual calling, not a political goal. “In a world exhausted by divisions, Christians must be witnesses of hope,” he said.
Poland’s Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich echoed that message, calling religious diversity “a blessing” and “a richness of our country,” adding, “We built together, we fought together, and we will find the path to peace together.”
Grzegorz Kuprianowicz, co-chair of the Joint Commission of Government and National and Ethnic Minorities, cited the Polish Constitution’s guarantee of minority rights and called on the president’s office to remain a steadfast supporter of those principles.
The ceremony was attended by senior religious figures, including leaders of Poland’s Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, and Greek Catholic churches.
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Source: PAP