Hon Christopher Finlayson
15 March 2013 Media Statement
Finlayson to represent Government at Papal Inauguration Mass
Hon Chris Finlayson will represent the New Zealand Government at the Inauguration Mass of Pope Francis I in Rome on 19
March.
“This will be a momentous occasion for the worldwide Catholic community, including Catholics in New Zealand,” said Mr
Finlayson.
Pope Francis I is the 266th Roman pontiff, the first pope from the southern hemisphere, and the first pope from the
Americas.
“On behalf of the Government, I wish him the best for his term of office and congratulate the people of Argentina on a
hugely significant day in the history of that country,” said Mr Finlayson.
Mr Finlayson will depart New Zealand for Rome this weekend, and will return on Thursday 21 March.
ENDS