GENERAL AUDIENCE: UNIVERSAL ESCHATOLOGY

VATICAN CITY, MAY 26, 1999 VIS) - "Universal eschatology: Humanity on the Journey to the Father" was the theme of John Paul II's catechism during this morning's general audience in St. Peter's Square.

The Pope said that, in order to reflect on human destiny, "it is essential to refer to Exodus with its orientation towards entry into the promised land," and its revelation of God's salvific action.

The Holy Father recalled that "during the exile, the prophets foretold a new Exodus," that "God will not only bring together His scattered people, but will transform the heart of each one," and create a new alliance.

"The resurrection of Christ, His ascension and the announcement of His return have shed a new light on our final end. ... Jesus says: 'I go to prepare a place for you. And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am, you may be also.'"

The Pope recalled that we do not know when the end of time will occur. For this reason, "we must patiently await the coming of the resurrected Jesus. ... Anticipation of the final event must be lived in serene hope, committing oneself in the present moment to building the kingdom which Christ will hand over to the Father at the end of time."

He concluded: "Consequently we must remain convinced that our 'commonwealth is in heaven and from it we await a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.' For here we have no lasting city."

Among his greetings at the end of the audience, John Paul II particularly addressed the pilgrims from the Apostolic Vicariate of Meki, Ethiopia: "The conflict between your country and Eritrea is a cause of great sadness to me. Let us pray that peace will be promptly and permanently restored."

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