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Obama Picks Theology Prof as Vatican Envoy

High-profile Cuban native would be first Hispanic to hold post

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted May 28, 2009 11:57 AM CDT

(Newser) – President Obama has nominated a Minnesota theologian as his Vatican ambassador, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. Miguel Diaz, 45, a Cuban-born professor who would be the first Hispanic US envoy to the Vatican, was an Obama campaign adviser. He was chosen after the Vatican reportedly rejected a series of possible nominees, including Caroline Kennedy, who support abortion rights, AFP adds.

Diaz is part of a project to improve the Hispanic church experience and has worked to better African-Americans’ standing. He is “passionate about the church, about the Trinity—one of his areas of expertise—and especially about bringing people together, even when that includes difficult conversations,” said the dean of St. John’s University, where Diaz has worked since 2004.

[Images (2)]

[Quotes (1)]

Miguel Diaz.

President Barack Obama waves to supporters prior to boarding Air Force One before departing Los Angeles International Airport today. (AP Photo)

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If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will continue the work of my predecessors and build upon 25 years of formal diplomatic relations with the Holy See. I wish to be a bridge between our nation and the Holy See. - Miguel H. Diaz

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Obama Picks Theology Prof as Vatican Envoy