WORLD DAY OF LEPROSY SUFFERERS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 31, 1999 (VIS) - Following the angelus at midday, the Pope reminded the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square that today is the World Day of Leprosy Sufferers.

This day, he said, has the aim of "re-mobilizing efforts to fight and defeat this serious illness which still affects 12 million persons. I send a special blessing to these people, assuring them of my constant prayer."
"I also welcome the Italian association, Friends of Raoul Follereau, and all those throughout the world who work generously to eradicate Hansen's disease (leprosy) and all kinds of marginalization from society."

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