ST. JOSEPH, GUARDIAN AND PROTECTOR OF THE CHURCH

VATICAN CITY, MAR 20, 1999 (VIS) - The Holy Father evoked the figure of St. Joseph "guardian of the Redeemer" in his speech this morning to one of several groups of pilgrims received in a special audience.

"From the first centuries," said the Pope, "the Fathers of the Church emphasized that, as Joseph lovingly cared for Mary and joyfully looked after Jesus's upbringing, so he cares and protects the Church, the mystical body of Christ of which Our Lady is the figure and model."

Speaking to a group from Brescia, the native city of Pope Paul VI, the Pontiff, textually quoted his "unforgettable predecessor" and encouraged them to "be faithful and to assure future generations that you will solidly, strongly, completely and fruitfully preserve the heritage of the Christian faith."

John Paul II had a special thought for Blessed Don Secondo Pollo, in words to pilgrims from Vercelli: "'Bet with him on holiness', which is the vocation of the entire people of God. It is a demanding endeavor, but it is also a source of true joy."

The Pope sent a special greeting to the sick and to the friends of the OFTAL association, founded by Msgr. Alessandro Rastrelli, "apostle of suffering, who spent all his life at the service of the sick. ... May Holy Mary who truly knows the redemptive value of human suffering be at your sides, in moments of trial and in times of prolonged illness."

Finally, the Holy Father addressed members of various confraternities on pilgrimage to the tombs of the apostles and martyrs, calling them "missionaries of hope and Christian solidarity," and urging them "to bring Christ's light, joy and grace, everywhere."

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