Pope gives politicians a patron saint

VATICAN CITY - Politicians -- often said to be in need of solid role models -- have been given a more ethereal source of inspiration following Pope John Paul II's proclamation of Saint Thomas More as their patron saint.

More is seen by the Vatican -- and Christians around the world -- as a symbol of integrity.

The English statesman was beheaded in 1535 for refusing to recognise the self-proclaimed supremacy of King Henry VIII in spiritual matters.

"There are many reasons for proclaiming Thomas More Patron of statesmen and people in public life," the Pope said in an apostolic letter published on Tuesday in the Vatican.

"Among these is the need felt by the world of politics and public administration for credible role models able to indicate the path of truth at a time in history when difficult challenges and crucial responsibilities are increasing."

ALSO Timeline of Saint Thomas More

The news of More's death shocked Europe, with his friend Erasmus of Rotterdam mourning the man "whose soul was more pure than any snow".

More, known as "A Man For All Seasons", was canonised by Pope Pius XI in 1935, on the fourth centenary of his martyrdom.

The author of the classic "Utopia", More has been held up as a hero for his insistence on placing moral integrity and conscience above the jurisdiction of political systems.

"Even outside the Church, particularly among those with responsibility for the destinies of peoples, he is acknowledged as a source of inspiration for a political system which has as its supreme goal the service of the human person," the Pope wrote.

Britain's Lord Alton, a member of Britain's Liberal Democrats, held More up as the perfect patron for a professional category that often has to make compromises in order to survive politically.

"In our own times, political life is so often about personal aggrandisement and advantage. Its participants pursue careers rather than causes," he said.

But former Italian President Francesco Cossiga warned that not all politicians would welcome More as their patron saint.

"Some politicians may be afraid of having Saint Thomas More as their example because following him may mean following him all the way," Cossiga said.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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