JOHN PAUL II OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES SPRING MARATHON

VATICAN CITY, MAY 27, 2000 (VIS) - At 10 this morning Pope John Paul appeared at his study window to greet those gathered below in St. Peter's Square who are participating in the Spring Marathon. He spoke briefly and then officially started the 20th edition of this race which celebrates Catholic schools in the Lazio region of Italy and which, on the occasion of the Jubilee Year, includes state-run schools as well.

"As you run through the streets of Rome," he told the participants, "bring a message of hope: be witnesses that it is possible to build a future of peace and justice, rejecting every form of exploitation and oppression." He added that schools should be places "of formation to face the emerging challenges of our times."

For students, the school years "are a precious cultural opportunity to fully use to your advantage." For teachers, they "are an occasion to transmit not only ideas and scientific data, but also to communicate an authentic experience of life." For families, these "are important years to guide your children."

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