SW News: Pope Francis has called upon Slovakians to preserve their rich and great traditions. Addressing government officials, the diplomatic corps, civil society and religious leaders at the Presidential Palace garden in Bratislava on Monday, September 13, Pope Francis cautioned about the superficiality of consumerism, material gains, and forms of ideological colonization. He said they should not let go of traditions for their sake.

The Holy Father urged Slovakians, especially the youth, to preserve their Christian tradition as like how salt is used to preserve food. He urged them to be like salt-- dissolving for others and enhancing the flavors of the society, its history and future.

The words of Pope Francis also echoed his constant call for solidarity. The Slavic people have a beautiful tradition of welcoming people with bread and salt, which are two vital elements of their everyday life. When he landed in Bratislava, the pontiff was welcomed in the traditional manner with salt and bread. Quoting the metaphor of salt, the first symbol that Jesus used to teach his disciples, Pope urged Slovakians to preserve “the flavour of solidarity.” “No one should be stigmatized or suffer discrimination,” said the Pope.

Addressing the delegates, Pope mentioned the apostles of Slavs, Saint Cyril, and St Methodius and their heritage of unity and brotherhood, which was a unifying force among Slavs, Greeks, and Latins. “Saints Cyril and Methodius also showed that preserving what is good does not mean repeating the past, but being open to newness without ever losing one’s roots,” said the Pope.