POPE PRAISES QUALITY OF GERMAN NEWSPAPER

VATICAN CITY, MAR 11, 1999 (VIS) - The Holy Father received at midday today a group of journalists and readers of the German newspaper for families, "Liboriusblatt," on the centenary of this publication's founding.

"In times which are not always easy," said the Pope speaking in German, "you have managed to maintain and define the Catholic profile of your newspaper. Thus you have an important place in the perspective of twentieth century press."

"Unfortunately, quantity is often to the detriment of quality. Public opinion is often formed on the basis of the presentation and impact of news rather than on its content. It sometimes seems that the truth content of a news item is sacrificed in value as a commodity for sale."

John Paul II said that "each time it is more difficult to decide what it is worth knowing. As readers of 'Liboriusblatt' you have chosen well. Your faithfulness shows a commitment for all those who work on the newspaper."

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