POPE THANKS PREACHER OF CURIA'S SPIRITUAL EXERCISES

VATICAN CITY, MAR 10, 2001 (VIS) - At the conclusion of the Roman Curia's spiritual exercises this morning in the "Redemptoris Mater" Chapel of the Vatican, John Paul II thanked the preacher of the retreat, Cardinal Francis Eugene George, archbishop of Chicago, U.S.A., in the name of all the participants.

The Pope said that "the personal and reflective style," of Cardinal George's preaching, "gave emphasis to the effectiveness of the evangelic Word. ... To a profound study of the biblical text you united stirring testimonies from your rich experience as missionary and as bishop, which assisted in applying the reflections to life. Through the great themes of conversion, freedom, and communion, you led us each day to contemplate Christ and deepen our faith in Him, this faith that is 'for all the peoples'."

"We remained attentive to the Lord, with the help of the Holy Spirit, in order to strengthen faith, fortify hope, and enliven charity. Trusting in the effectiveness of the word of Christ, the Church casts out Her nets into the vast ocean of this new millennium just begun."

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