Citing concerns over unauthorized use of the Pope's name and image, the
Holy See has issued a declaration seeking to protect the "figure and
personal identity of the Pope".
"Recent years have witnessed a great increase of affection and esteem for the person of the Holy Father," the declareation published on the Vatican website says.
"There has also been a desire to use the Pope's name in the title of universities, schools or cultural institutions, as well as associations, foundations and other groups.
"In light of this fact, the Holy See hereby declares that it alone has the right to ensure the respect due to the Successors of Peter, and, therefore, to protect the figure and personal identity of the Pope from the unauthorized use of his name and/or the papal coat of arms for ends and activities which have little or nothing to do with the Catholic Church.
"Occasionally, in fact, attempts have been made to attribute credibility and authority to initiatives by using ecclesiastical or papal symbols and logos.
"Consequently, the use of anything referring directly to the person or office of the Supreme Pontiff (his name, his picture or his coat of arms), and/or the use of the title "Pontifical", must receive previous and express authorization from the Holy See," the declaration said.
FULL STORY @
Declaration on the protection of the figure of the Pope (Vatican Information Service)
PHOTO
http://www.agenciabrasil.gov.br/media/imagens/2007/05/10/1654rs010.jpg/view