A DEWSBURY peer represented the UK Government at the inauguration of Pope Francis.
Faith and Communities Minister Baroness Sayeeda Warsi was in Rome as Pope Francis officially begun his ministry as the 266th pontiff.
The Dewsbury-born politician, inset, was among 132 official delegations.
Baroness Warsi said: “It’s an honour to represent the UK Government at the inauguration of Pope Francis and a privilege to witness first-hand this historic event.
“This is a hugely significant moment for the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics, and many more people of all faiths and of none.
“Just over one year ago, I led the UK’s largest ministerial delegation to the Holy See alongside the Archbishop of Westminster to further our vital relationship.
“Not only do 10% of Britons identify themselves as Catholics, but the Holy See is our oldest diplomatic relationship, and we work together on numerous areas including development, disarmament and protecting the role of faith in society.
“The UK government warmly welcomes Pope Francis and wishes him the very best as he embarks on his pontificate.”
Before the Mass began, Francis received the fisherman’s ring symbolising the papacy and a wool stole symbolising his role as shepherd.
His speech was interrupted by applause several times, including when he spoke of the need to protect the environment, serve one another with love and tenderness and not allow “omens of destruction,” hatred, envy and pride to “defile our lives.”
