Washington (NC) – Archbishop Joseph L. Bernardin of Cincinnati has urged American Catholics to “unite with our chosen leaders” in facing post-election challenges.

Archbishop Bernardin, President of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops made his comments in a statement and in telegrams to President-elect Jimmy Carter and President Gerald Ford.

The archbishop, who with other bishops had met earlier in the campaign with both Ford and Carter, told the candidates he appreciated “their efforts to shed light on the many issues which face us.”

Following is a text of Archbishop Bernardin’s statement:

“After a hard fought election campaign it is necessary that we unite with our chosen leaders in facing the many challenges to our nation and our world. It is the testimony to our vitality of our democratic system of government that this can and will happen.”

“In telegrams today to President Ford and President-elect Carter I have expressed appreciation for their efforts to shed light on the many issues which face us. The issues discussed and debated in recent months remain as pressing after the election as they were before it. It is upon these issues that we must all, leaders and people alike, concentrate our best energies in the months and years ahead.”

Following is the text of his telegram to Mr. Carter:

“On behalf of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, I extend congratulations and promise prayers. The election campaign was evidence that our democratic system continues to function well, and it shed light on many of the critical questions which face our nation. May God’s grace enlighten you and your administration in seeking the fullest possible measure of peace, liberty, and justice for the United States and all nations of the world now and in the years to come. “

Following is the text of his telegram to Mr. Ford:

“On behalf of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, I wish to express appreciation for your many services to the nation and to promise prayers for your future happiness and success. May God’s grace comfort you and your family and inspire you as you continue to play a constructive role in public life now and in the years to come.”