WITNESS IS STRENGTHENED THROUGH DIALOGUE WITH CHRIST

VATICAN CITY, JUN 24, 2000 (VIS) - At midday today in the Paul VI Hall, John Paul II received faithful from the Italian diocese of Ascoli Piceno and various other groups who have come to Rome on a Jubilee pilgrimage.

The Pope made reference to reflections on the Eucharist and the Mass that have been taking place in all the parishes of Ascoli Piceno since the month of October. He suggested that this experience continue in order to help "those who wish to reach an ever more complete knowledge of their own faith."

"Indeed, the commitment to witness and mission, which is entrusted to all baptized Christians according to their life circumstances, draws strength from a constant and profound dialogue with Christ, who is present in a very special way in the Eucharist."

The Holy Father highlighted that the diocese "has already planned the construction of a pastoral care center for youth in Sierra Leone and of a house of welcome for handicapped children in Zambia. Furthermore, in your own territory, new structures have been created to help people in material or spiritual difficulties."

He continued: "Renewed faith, more concrete hope and tireless charity will be the most precious fruits of the celebration of the Holy Year."

The Pope then addressed other groups of pilgrims from various Italian cities to whom he expressed the hope that, "for everyone, the Jubilee will be an incentive for renewed adherence to Christ and the Gospel in order to give an ever more incisive Christian witness in society. On this journey, may you be sustained by the intercession of the Mother of God and by that of the Precursor of Christ, who is recalled with particular honor by today's liturgy."

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