ONE CAN ACCOMPLISH GREAT GOOD EVEN IN ILLNESS

VATICAN CITY, JUN 4, 2001 (VIS) - This morning in the Clementine Hall, John Paul II received 180 child cancer patients of the "Intesa senza barriere" Foundation of Poland.

"I know how difficult the experience of illness is, especially for a child," the Pope said. "Therefore, together with you, I pray with all my heart to the Lord Jesus for the gift of health for you and for all of your peers tried by infirmity and suffering." He also prayed that they "be strong in spirit, especially when the body is subjected to weakness. Thinking of the difficult situation of health care service in Poland today, I also ask God to instil in all of those in charge the spirit of love and wisdom, which prompts them to do what is possible to effectively change this reality, for the good of all the Polish."

The Holy Father assured the children that "even in illness a great good is accomplished both in the sick person and in the hearts of those who are near him." He then thanked Jesus for the love of the parents and relatives, the doctors and nurses, and for "the generosity of people, often unknown, who support you materially and spiritually. May this love and this goodness never be lacking!"

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