On January 10, 1984 full diplomatic relations were re-established between the USA and the Vatican after 117 years. On hearing a rumour that the Pope was going to forbid American Protestants to hold services within Rome's city walls the US Congress passed a resolution in 1867 saying that no federal funds could be used to maintain a diplomatic mission in Rome.
Some US presidents appointed a personal envoy to the Vatican but the restoration of relations meant the appointment of an American Ambassador to the Vatican and a Papal Nuncio to the USA.
God of nations,
we pray for all those who serve in diplomatic roles around our world.
We ask that nations will use diplomatic means to resolve conflicts.
May the presence and activity of ambassadors strengthen ties between nations and assist them in working together on shared issues.
Amen
By Fr Pat O'Shea - Lower Hutt
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