JOHN PAUL II ADDRESSES NATIONAL SYNOD OF SLOVENIA

VATICAN CITY, SEP 19, 1999 (VIS) - In late afternoon, following lunch with the bishops of Slovenia and the cardinals who had come to Maribor for the papal visit, John Paul II went to the city's cathedral where he prayed at the tomb of Blessed Anton Martin Slomsek and then addressed the delegates of the national synod, whose theme is "Choose Life."

Also present for the papal discourse were government officials as well as a group of university rectors of central Europe, gathered to celebrate the 140th anniversary of the founding of the theology faculty in Maribor.

The Holy Father, in his speech, emphasized that a synod is an expression of communion, one "in which is represented the entire community: pastors, religious and laity. The latter, in particular, are asked to give a specific contribution, above all on those themes which more closely concern them in their experience in the world and in their mission."

He encouraged them to "evangelize, to announce to everyone the joyous news of salvation in Christ. ... To do this, don't be afraid to ask for the conditions of freedom necessary to undertake the mission of the Church. If, as citizens, Christians have the duty to contribute to the good of all of society, as faithful they have the right not to be barred from their legitimate activity."

Then, addressing the entire Church in Slovenia, Pope John Paul exhorted it to "'Choose life'. Choose above everything else this most precious gift of God the Creator and Savior. Bring this gift to those who don't have the strength to pardon; to the men and women who have known the bitterness of failure in their marriage; bring it to young people, too often the victims of false idols; bring it to the families of Slovenia so that they might live with faith and generosity their commitment to mission; bring it to everyone who collaborates in the work of the Kingdom of God, so they do not get discouraged in the face of difficulties; bring it to everyone who contributes with their work, and in particular by taking on public responsibilities, for the common good of citizens."

After his talk at the cathedral, the Pope went to Maribor Airport, where, prior to his 7:30 p.m. departure for Rome, he was greeted by Church and civil officials, including President Milan Kucan of Slovenia.

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