POPE GREETS CATHOLIC SCHOOL MARATHON PARTICIPANTS

VATICAN CITY, APR 24, 1999 (VIS) - This morning at 10 Pope John Paul, speaking from his study window overlooking St. Peter's Square, addressed the thousands of young boys and girls participating in the "Spring Marathon," organized by the Association of Catholic Schools of Rome.

"The word 'spring'," said the Pope, "indicates the reawakening of nature and the will to live; the word 'marathon', on the other hand, evokes the dynamism of change and growth. These are precisely the characteristics of youth. May your friendly event, as it goes through the streets of the city with a message of trust and fraternity, contribute to realizing a world where violence is banned and solidarity and peace reign."

The Holy Father concluded, speaking of the "problems regarding Catholic schools," which he said he is closely following and which he hopes are resolved by leaders "for the good of the entire civic and ecclesial community."

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