NASSAU, Bahamas -- Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie met with His Excellency The Most Reverend Nicola Girasoli, Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See at the Office of the Prime Minister Cable Beach, Thursday, July 14, 2012.During the meeting, the Prime Minister praised the Catholic Archdiocese for its “defining role” in educating countless Bahamians, as well as for its creation and participation in numerous outreach programmes throughout the country.

Prime Minister Christie said he hopes that the Catholic Archdiocese continues its outstanding contributions to the Bahamian people.Furthermore, he noted that the Catholic Archdiocese and other church denominations would be called upon by the government to play a big part in the revival of the Urban Renewal Programme. Through the programme’s rebirth, the government hopes to reduce crime and bring help and hope to individuals who are going through economic and other hardships.

The Prime Minister said progress has already been made so far as the programme gets underway under this new administration.Archbishop Patrick Pinder of the Archdiocese of Nassau, who was also present at the meeting, promised the Prime Minister and the Bahamian people that the Archdiocese would continue its good works in the country. Pope Benedict XVI appointed Archbishop Girasoli the new Apostolic Nuncio to the region, and the announcement was made December 21 by Fr Daniele Liessi, Chargé d’Affaires at the Apostolic Nunciature.