ROSARY IS BOTH SIMPLE AND PROFOUND, SAYS POPE

VATICAN CITY, OCT 10, 1999 (VIS) - At today's angelus, which he recited from his study window overlooking St. Peter's Square after his visit to a Roman parish, the Pope recalled that October is the month of the rosary, and he urged the faithful to "turn frequently to this prayer, which once was the daily prayer of Christian families."

He observed that the rosary "unites, in a wonderful way, simplicity and profoundness, the individual and the community aspects. The rosary is in itself a contemplative prayer, and has great strength for intercession."

"There are many intentions we can entrust to Mary," the Holy Father went on. "In particular I urge you to recite the rosary for the synod of the bishops of Europe, now taking place in he Vatican. I am trying diligently to participate, and I can see with what great pastoral concern the synod fathers are facing the great challenges of the European continent. What is strongly emerging is the need for a renewed and courageous evangelization, a vast missionary action which takes into account the changed situations in Europe, which is increasingly multi-ethnic and multi-cultural."

The Pope then recited the angelus with the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, after which he remarked that "today is Mental Health Day, promoted by the World Health organization." He also mentioned that Italy today is celebrating the Day of Social Communications, on the theme 'Mass Media: A Friendly Presence Next to those Seeking the Father."

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