POPE MEETS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF GEORGIA BEFORE DEPARTURE

VATICAN CITY, NOV 9, 1999 (VIS) - Following his visit with members of the world of culture and science, the Holy Father went to the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul in Tbilisi, one of only two Catholic churches in the Georgian capital, where he met with priests, religious and a small group of lay faithful, and urged them to "work for a new springtime of the Gospel" in their land.

The encounter began at 6:45 p.m., local time. Pope John Paul, the first pontiff to visit Georgia in its millennia-old history, recalled that "this building, the only Catholic Church to remain open in Tbilisi during the period of persecution, is an eloquent symbol of persevering fidelity to Christ and unbroken communion with the See of Peter."

The city's other Catholic church, Assumption parish, was built by Capuchin Fathers at the start of the century, was closed for worship during the years of Soviet domination and requisitioned by the State for use as an office and gymnasium. It was finally returned to the Church and was reconsecrated on August 15, 1999.

The Pope greeted bishop-elect Giuseppe Pasotto, apostolic administrator of the Caucasus, and then had special words for priests, religious and laity.

To priests he said: "Like the seed which falls to the ground and dies, only to produce much fruit, your priestly ministry, carried on in simplicity and humility, quietly enriches the soil from which, by God's grace, new and abundant spiritual fruit is now emerging."

"You too, dear men and women religious, have a special place in the Pope's heart. ... Your commitment to the pursuit of perfect charity leads you to generous service of those in need, and those who, often without knowing it, are seeking the Kingdom of God amid the false promise of a world confused about right values."

John Paul II went on to say: "I give my encouragement and support to the lay faithful of this blessed land of Georgia. In your families, your parishes and your associations, celebrate your faith in Christ and be a leaven of the Gospel in society around you! ... Let the light of Christ scatter whatever shadows and darkness you may find in your own hearts and in the world around you. Do not be afraid to open yourselves to Christ and to the purifying power of His love."

After praying the Our Father with those assembled, and imparting his blessing, the Pope left for Tbilisi's international airport where he departed for Rome.

On the return flight to Rome, which lasted just over four hours, Pope John Paul used the plane's public address system, telling the journalists aboard that he was "happy to return to Rome" and adding: "I wish everyone good health." He arrived at Rome's Ciampino Airport, then took a ten-minute helicopter ride to the Vatican, arriving just after 10 p.m. local time.

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