ST. CATHERINE IS A MODEL OF SANCTITY FOR ALL

VATICAN CITY, OCT 10, 1999 (VIS) - Today the Pope resumed his practice of making pastoral visits to the parishes in his diocese, by celebrating Mass in the parish of St. Catherine of Siena. "May this great saint be for everyone," he said in his homily, "a special protectress, as well as a model to follow on the road to sanctity."

Mentioning the "challenge of new evangelization," John Paul II highlighted that "this is a task that involves all members of the people of God, requesting each to make available their own particular talents in the service of the Gospel. In this way, diocesan and religious priests, parish communities and communities of religious work together - while still respecting their legitimate autonomy - to announce and witness Christ, humanity's only redeemer. Up to now your parish has followed this route, I encourage you to continue with conviction and generosity."

"Though lacking a true center for parish activities, (this parish) has shown itself capable of offering an uninterrupted course of catechesis and formation to Christian life as well as a clear testimony of evangelical charity. Continue on this path!"

"The Holy Father expressed his hope that the parishioners "may soon obtain land on which to construct a satisfactory church building," and he invited them to "treasure the experience acquired over these years. In your apostolic work," he continued, "do not limit yourselves to those who already have contact, be it frequent or sporadic, with the Christian faith. Seek out all persons and announce the Gospel to them where they live, work, study, suffer or pass their free time."

Following Mass, John Paul II met a group of children from the parish. One of them asked him why he had embraced the man who shot him in St. Peter's Square on May 13, 1981, he replied: "I forgave him because that is the teaching of Jesus. Jesus teaches us to forgive."

HML;...;...;ST. CATHERINE;VIS;19991011;Word: 330;