PRAYERS FOR THE "BELOVED PEOPLE OF TAIWAN"

VATICAN CITY, SEP 26, 1999 (VIS) - Today Pope John Paul, during his post-angelus greetings to the people gathered in the courtyard at the residence of Castelgandolfo, spoke of the recent earthquake in Taiwan.

"In these days," he said in English, "my thoughts have constantly turned to the beloved people of Taiwan as they recover from the recent earthquake and its tragic aftermath. With profound concern I commend the victims to almighty God and implore his divine consolation and strength upon all the bereaved. I am likewise confident that the international community will respond with renewed solidarity and ready assistance in the urgent work of relief and rebuilding."

The Holy Father then briefly greeted pilgrims in French, German, Spanish and Portuguese. He concluded in Italian by acknowledging the presence of Bishop Dante Bernini and numerous faithful from the diocese of Albano, where Castelgandolfo is located. The Pope expressed his "sincere appreciation and recognition" to Bishop Bernini for his pastoral ministry of the past eighteen years.

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