POPE TO RETURN TO THE VATICAN THIS EVENING

VATICAN CITY, SEP 1, 2000 (VIS) - The Pope, as is his custom prior to leaving his summer residence of Castelgandolfo and returning to the Vatican, bade farewell this morning to the mayor and members of the town council as well as to the forces of law and order, to medical personnel and to religious.

The Holy Father indicated that this year his stay at Castelgandolfo had been briefer than normal, due to the numerous Jubilee events he has to preside. "Nonetheless, I feel that the fresh climate and relaxing atmosphere of the Roman hills have done me good and I trust that the salutary effects of this period will accompany me over the coming months.

"This summer too, I have had the opportunity of experiencing the friendly hospitality that your town extends to me, to my helpers and to my visitors. In particular, I would like to thank you for what you did for the numerous young people who also came to Castelgandolfo for World Youth Day. I am certain that for you, just as for the entire ecclesial community, the great meeting of youth will remain ingrained in your memories as a sign of hope and as a potent stimulus to a courageous spiritual and moral renewal."

Speaking to the forces of law and order, the Pope said: "I never forget that yours is an important and difficult mission, often dangerous and always tiring. It calls for sacrifice and demands that you pass many hours away from your homes and families. Precisely for this reason, I ask the Lord to give you protection and to grant serenity to you and your loved ones. I thank you once again for your discreet and effective presence."

At 7:30 p.m., the Holy Father will travel by helicopter from Castelgandolfo to the Vatican.

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