STRONG ANTIFASCIST

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 53, 4 March 1939, Page 9

STRONG ANTIFASCIST

SETBACK TO MUSSOLINI DICTATORS’ DEMANDS WILL BE WHITTLED DOWN Received March 3, 11.55 p.m. LONDON, March 3. World comment is generally favourable towards the election of Cardinal Pacelli, although there is some disappointment in Germany and Italy. In Rome, political circles consider the election constitutes a setback to Signor Mussolini, because the new Pope is a strong anti-Fascist. In Berlin newspapers which were previously critical of Cardinal Pacelli are now neutral. Paris believes that the Pope will carry on the policy of his predecessor. Madame Tabouis says the election will tend to change Herr Hitler’s and Signor Mussolini’s plans. Their demands undoubtedly will be whittled down and expressed more diplomatically than if a weaker Poper had been elected.

CATHOLICS REJOICE

ELECTION OF NEW POPE SPECIAL SERVICES ON DAY OF CORONATION I Her t’resß Association. ] WELLINGTON, March 3. "Every Catholic rejoices on the election of the Pope," said Monsignor Connolly, administrator of the Archdiocese of Wellington, when asked to comment on the event. "Catholics’ joy and surety was based on the belief that the selection of the Pope was made under Divine influence. Although following in the footsteps of his Divine Master he is ruler of a kingdom not of this world. Still the affairs of the world must be a concern ot his, inasmuch as they have a bearing on the welfare of the Kingdom of God. For this reason they felt pleased at the selection of Cardinal Pacelli. His ability as a great linguist and scholar would help to honour the Papacy. His services as Secretary of State had filled them with confidence as to his efficacy in diplomacy. His human qualifications must be outstanding when the College of Cardinals followed the most unusual line of electing as Pope a Secretary of State. Another reason for confidence was that the selection was made so quickly. The election of the new Pope will be the occasion of special observances in Catholic services on the day of the Coronation, which is usually a Sunday.