JOHN PAUL II VISITS NATIVITY SCENE OF ROME'S STREET CLEANERS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 9, 2000 (VIS) - This afternoon, in a traditional visit for this time of year, the Pope visited the nativity scene built by Roman street cleaners in their headquarters near the Vatican.

In his brief address, John Paul II said that he was certain that the street cleaners would carry out their duty "with a great sense of responsibility in the desire that the city's appearance always be clean and well ordered. Even if this requires a certain sacrifice, do it willingly, aware of the advantages that the movement of pilgrims and tourists brings to the community of citizens."

The Pope concluded: "On this occasion too, thanks to your service, Rome will be able to live up to its traditional role as a welcoming and hospitable city. Your cooperation, which requires a certain generous willingness, will make a significant contribution to the success of the Jubilee. Consequently, as of this moment, I would like to express to you my gratitude."

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