POPE ENTRUSTS YOUTH WITH BUILDING A WORLD OF PEACE

VATICAN CITY, NOV 17, 1999 (VIS) - Following today's general audience catechesis, Pope John Paul greeted the pilgrims present in St. Peter's Square in diverse languages, concluding with special words for 3,000 Italian soldiers, their commanders and chaplains.

"I am grateful for your presence," he told the young people. "You are living a period of your life which can offer singular opportunities for human and Christian growth. Military service certainly presents difficulties connected with the exigencies and discipline which characterize it. However, it also offers notable possibilities for inner growth, both for the sacrifices which it demands and for the more vast human horizon to which you are introduced. Make this time of your life an authentic school of formation which makes you more aware as people, capable and honest professionals and courageous Christians."

Then, addressing all the young people present at the general audience, the Holy Father remarked that "we are nearing the Great Jubilee when we will celebrate the 2,000 years since the birth of Christ." He entrusted the youth with the task of "becoming builders of a world of authentic peace and solidarity in hope."

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