REMAIN FIRMLY UNITED TO CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH

VATICAN CITY, APR 15, 2000 (VIS) - This morning in the Paul VI Hall, the Pope received 5,000 pilgrims from the Italian diocese of Fabriano-Matelica as well as other groups from Turin and Milan, Italy, and from Marseille, France.

To faithful from the diocese of Fabriano-Matelica, the Pope said: "Strengthened by the ancient traditions that supported your ancestors on their journey in faith, advance confidently towards the future and transmit love for Jesus, man's only Redeemer, to the young generations. Remain firm in your devotion to Him and His Church."

John Paul II affirmed that "the great challenges of the modern age require courage and missionary daring. Dear brothers and sisters, do not flag in your efforts for the renewal of society through effective witness and clear proclamation, giving due regard to the signs of the times. Take every appropriate measure in the field of the apostolate."

He encouraged the faithful from parishes in Turin and Milan to find nourishment and strength "in the sacramental gifts, so that in your communities you may become instruments of God's tenderness, open to the needs of all humanity. May Mary, Mother of the Church, always accompany you on your way."

"On the eve of Palm Sunday, which introduces us to the central mystery of our faith," said the Holy Father to a group of young people from Marseille, "I invite you to follow Christ. ... In contemplating the cross of the Savior, may you discover the infinite love of God who sacrificed Himself in order to save us and who calls on you to make something beautiful of your lives."

AC;PILGRIMS JUBILEE;...;...;VIS;20000417;Word: 280;