REGINA COELI: APPEALS FOR PEACE IN KOSOVO, AID FOR REFUGEES

VATICAN CITY, APR 5, 1999 (VIS) - Both before and after praying the Regina Coeli today from Castelgandolfo, the Pope spoke of the dramatic situation in Kosovo and the Balkans, and pleaded for peace to be restored in that region and for assistance to be given to the victims of the conflict, in particular the refugees.

Recalling that today is Easter Monday, also called Monday of the Angel, the Holy Father said: "Today we repeat 'Christ, my hope, is risen!', and beseech Him for courage in fidelity and perseverance in good. Above all we invoke peace, the gift He obtained for us with His death and resurrection. We pray that the precious gift of peace might be given especially to our brothers and sisters of Kosovo, where the Easter bells have not rung out in celebration and where, unfortunately, the war continues with destruction, deportations and death."

Following the Regina Coeli prayer, John Paul II greeted "the inhabitants of Castelgandolfo, who always welcome me with great thoughtfulness, and all those who gathered here on this day of calm relaxation.

"We cannot, however, forget those who are going through moments of great suffering. I think with affection of the many refugees of Kosovo who are living in dramatic conditions.

"With all my heart I thank those who are generously trying to help them. I especially appreciate Italy's commitment in Albania, as well as in Italy itself, in a vast and generous aid program called 'Rainbow'. I encourage public and private institutions, volunteers organizations and individual citizens to intensify their efforts to come to the aid of our brothers and sisters who are so sorely tried."

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