POPE THANKS CHRISTMAS CONCERT ARTISTS

VATICAN CITY, DEC 15, 2000 (VIS) - This morning, the Pope received in audience the artists who, on Saturday December 16, will participate in the traditional "Christmas in the Vatican" concert, which will be held in the Paul VI Hall.

John Paul II thanked the artists because "with their contribution, this special concert aims to help the vicariate of Rome accomplish the '50 churches for Rome 2000' project. This initiative is an important commitment to give - to those parishes that still do not have them - structures for worship, catechesis and for the many vital social, charitable and sporting activities." In the last 20 years, he added, the diocese of Rome "has been able to build 39 parish complexes; ten are being built and 12 are still in the planning stages."

After wishing the artists a happy Christmas, the Holy Father said: "Through the medium of television, may my affectionate greetings reach out to those who tune in to follow your performance."

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