Christianity's role in the definition of the values and objectives of the European Union past, present and future

Abstract

This dissertation has the aim to provide the reader with a general overview of the role Christianity had, has and will eventually have in the definition of the values and objectives of the European Union. The first chapter starts by explaining the church's role and relationship within EU institutions. One may read about the appointment of an Apostolic Nuncio being accredited to the European Community, and the work carried out by the Council of the Episcopal Conferences of Europe (CCEE) together with the statements and debates put forward by the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Community (COMECE). The Church speaks up and contributes in different areas of discussion in order to help in achieving the common good. Hence this chapter also includes a section that shows how the European Union's dialogue with civil society and Church. Catholics have a role to function in Europe. In the documents of the Second Vatican Council Decree Ad Gentes, on the mission activity of the church there is written; "The presence of the Christian faithful in these human groups should be inspired by that charity with which God has loved us, and with which He wills that we should love one another (cf 1 John 4:11)." Hence chapter 1 also focuses on Christians participation in the decision process mainly trough the political parties. Therefore this chapter explains also how Christian principles and values are reflected in the European Parliament. The European parliament and the other EU institutions have as a core principle the idea of getting people together. Hence this chapter ends by giving a general overview on how ecumenical activity is being carried out in the European Parliament and Europe. "To those in quest of peace, the Church wishes to answer in fraternal dialogue, bearing them the peace and the light of the Gospel." This statement given in the Second Vatican Council serves us as an introduction for what we are expected to read in the second chapter. Chapter two awards the reader with some historical background on how Europe started the process of unification based on common shared values. Chapter two shows how Europe is based on the values of solidarity, equality, peace, and other humanistic values.