ARGENTINIAN FOREIGN MINISTER VISITS VATICAN

VATICAN CITY, JAN 31, 2002 (VIS) - At midday today, Holy See Press Office Director Joaquin Navarro-Valls made the following declaration:

"This morning, Carlos Ruckauf, Argentinian foreign minister, visited Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano in order to explain the plans the new Argentinian government has to re-establish peace and social justice, both in Argentinian society and at an international level."

"The cardinal then presented the minister to his collaborators, Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, substitute for General Affairs, and Archbishop Jean-Louis Tauran, secretary for Relations with States, with whom he held a discussion on international problems."

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POPE INAUGURATES ACADEMIC YEAR AT A ROMAN UNIVERSITY

VATICAN CITY, JAN 31, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, the Pope inaugurated the academic year at Rome's "Roma Tre" university, marking the occasion of the tenth anniversary of its foundation. The university currently has eight faculties, 33,000 students and 700 professors.

The ceremony, which began at 9:45 a.m., was held in the aula magna of the faculty of philosophy and literature. Following greetings from the rector, Guido Fabiani, a member of the university's teaching staff made a speech entitled: "The evolution of the concept of peace: a historical itinerary." Letizia Moratti, Italian minister for education, then pronounced a few words.

The Pope arrived at 11 a.m. After receiving greetings from the rector and from a student he delivered an address to those present.

"The essential task of universities," he said, "is to be centers in the quest for truth," such as that concerned with "the laws of knowledge, of coexistence, of the use of the sciences; and more profound truths, such as those involved with the meaning of human action and with the values that motivate individual and community activity."

John Paul II emphasized that "humanity has need of centers of truth. And if the university is a melting pot of knowledge, those who work there must let their own actions be guided by the compass of intellectual honesty, thanks to which they can distinguish the false from the true, the part from the whole, the means from the end."

He went on to say that "individuals are both spiritual and material, capable of spiritualizing matter, rendering it a docile instrument of their own spiritual energy, in other words of their intelligence and will. At the same time, they are capable of giving a material dimension to the spirit."

The Holy Father indicated that "faith illuminates the fundamental frame of reference of the irrefutable values engraved in the hearts of each and all. All we have to do is read history with an objective mind to realize how important religion has been in the formation of cultures, and how much its influence has formed the entire human 'habitat.' To ignore or deny this is not only an error of perspective but also a poor service to the truth about man. Why be afraid to open knowledge and culture to faith? The passion and the rigor of research have nothing to lose in an enlightened dialogue with the values to be found in religion."

"Last Thursday's gathering in Assisi," he concluded, "showed how authentic religious spirit promotes sincere dialogue that opens spirits to mutual comprehension and understanding in the service of the cause of mankind."

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OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 31, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed:

- Fr. Brian Finnigan, secretary general of the Australian Episcopal Conference, as auxiliary of the archdiocese of Brisbane (area 65.000, population 2.555.100, Catholics 550.603, priests 260, permanent deacons 1, religious 1.038), Australia. The bishop elect was born in Port Fairy, Australia, in 1938 and ordained a priest in 1970.

- As members of the Pontifical Council "Cor Unum": Fr. Vittorio Nozza, director of Italian Caritas; Kenneth F. Hackett, executive director of "Catholic Relief Services", U.S.A.; Ana Alvarez de Lara, president of "Manos Unidas", Spain; Terence Thompson of "Share Life", Canada.

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 30, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in audience Cardinal Camillo Ruini, his vicar general for the diocese of Rome and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference. The cardinal was accompanied by: Bishop Salvatore Fisichella, auxiliary of Rome for the southern sector and rector of the Pontifical Lateran University; Msgr. Lorenzo Leuzzi, director of the vicariate of Rome's office for University Pastoral Ministry and Fr. Pedro Olea Alvarez, C.S.I., chaplain of Rome's "La Terza" University.

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GENERAL AUDIENCE: DISCOVER THE DIVINE WORD IN CREATION

VATICAN CITY, JAN 30, 2002 (VIS) - Psalm 18, "God's glory in Creation," was the theme of the Pope's catechesis during the general audience which was held this morning in the Paul VI Hall.

John Paul II explained that Psalm 18 "is not only a prayer of extraordinary intensity, but also a poetic hymn to the sun and the radiance it shines over the face of the earth. ... For the man of the Bible ... the sun is not a god, it is a creature at the service of the one Creating God."

The two parts of the Psalm, he went on, "are united by a common thread: God illuminates the universe with the radiance of the sun and illuminates humanity with the splendor of His Word, contained in biblical revelation."

"The night and the day are described as messengers who transmit the great news of creation. ... Men and women can discover that the world is not mute, but speaks of the Creator."

The Holy Father indicated that "the Psalm's solar imagery is taken up by the Christian paschal liturgy to describe Christ's triumphal exodus from the shadow of the tomb and His entrance into the fullness of the new life of the resurrection."

The Pope concluded: "The Christian interpretation of the Psalm does not eliminate its central message which is an invitation to discover the divine word present in the creation. As it says in the second part of the Psalm there exists another more exalted Word - more precious than light itself - that of biblical revelation."

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TO TAIWANESE BISHOPS: OVERCOME THE DIFFICULTIES OF THE PAST

VATICAN CITY, JAN 29, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, the Pope received in audience the bishops of Taiwan at the close of their "ad limina" visit. John Paul II began his address by recalling the hope he expressed in the Apostolic Letter "Novo millennio ineunte," written at the end of the Jubilee Year 2000, that the particular Churches may undertake with renewed commitment the task of "living a Christian life marked by communion, charity and witness before the world."

"Over the past year," said the Pope, "the Catholic community in Taiwan has taken up this mission by reflecting on the theme: 'New Century, New Evangelization,' with the aim of contributing with concrete initiatives to the renewal of Church life in your dioceses." The Pope emphasized that such initiatives "will bear fruit provided that they reflect the two dimensions necessary in all the Church's activities: ... a spirit of prayer and contemplation ... (and) the duty to proclaim Christ, convinced that the spreading of the Gospel is 'the primary service which the Church can render to every individual and to all humanity in the modern world'."

John Paul II recalled that "faced with the difficulties affecting the life of faith today, it could be tempting for pastors to adopt an attitude of resignation and say, like the Apostle Peter: 'Master, we toiled all night and took nothing'." However, he went on to stress: "Convinced that Jesus Christ ... is the Good News for the men and women of every time and place in their search for the meaning of life, ... we should never be afraid of proclaiming the full truth about Him, in all its challenging reality. The Good News has an intrinsic power of its own to draw people."

"You do not work alone," the Pope told the bishops, "the mission belongs to all of God's people. Your priests are your closest collaborators in the work of evangelization. Lives of priests, in direct contact with both Christians and non-Christians in parishes and the various places where they exercise their pastoral ministry, are the measure of each community's vitality."

The Pope then expressed words of "gratitude, appreciation and encouragement to the men and women who belong to Taiwan's numerous institutes of consecrated life. ... There is a widespread demand today for authentic spirituality, which expresses itself in large part as a renewed need for prayer. This is particularly true in societies such as your own which on the one hand has a rich heritage of spiritual traditions and on the other is threatened by currents of materialism and individualism." He invited consecrated men and women "to cultivate carefully the life of prayer" and to be "true teachers of prayer for clergy and laity alike."

Speaking of the laity, the Pope affirmed that they have a specific responsibility and mission within the Church: to be "salt of the earth" and "light of the world." And he observed: "In the local Church in Taiwan their role is all the more vital: though by comparison their number is small, they act as a leaven in society. ... Through their faith, goodness and loving service, they can lead to the spread of an authentic Christian culture."

In conclusion, John Paul II mentioned the help given by the Church in Taiwan to the Church in other parts of Asia: "Your concern is expressed particularly in the attention you give to your brothers and sisters on the mainland who have in common with you so many cultural, spiritual and historical values. In this, your efforts are aimed at promoting mutual understanding, reconciliation and fraternal love among all the Catholics of the great Chinese family. I am confident that these efforts, carried out in communion with other particular Churches and the See of Peter, will help to overcome the difficulties of the past, so that ever new opportunities for dialogue and reciprocal human and spiritual enrichment may arise."

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 29, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences three prelates from the Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference on their "ad limina" visit:
- Bishop Philip Huang Chao-ming of Hwalien, accompanied by his auxiliary, Bishop John Baptist Tseng Chien-tsi.
- Bishop James Liu Tan-Kuei, auxiliary of Taipei.

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JOHN PAUL II EVOKES EMOTIONS LIVED IN ASSISI

VATICAN CITY, JAN 27, 2002 (VIS) - Before praying the Angelus at midday today, John Paul II, appearing at the window of his study in order to pray the Angelus with pilgrims gathered below in St. Peter's Square, affirmed that "the emotion lived last Thursday in Assisi during the celebration of the Day of Prayer for Peace," was still alive in him.

After recalling the appeal against violence launched together with Representatives from other religions, the Pope affirmed, "In this way we have laid another cornerstone in the path of building a civilization of peace and love."

John Paul II then said, "A very special thought I address to young people who, with their typical enthusiasm, enlivened the town of St. Francis on the occasion of this meeting. It is to you, the new generations, that the future of the world is entrusted." Afterwards, the Pope, greeting the many young boys and girls of Catholic Action of Rome, who today celebrate their own 'Day of Peace', said, "Two among you here, nearby me, in a few moments will release into the sky two doves, symbols of peace. It is a significant gesture that we dedicate to the many children who, unfortunately, are still victims of wars and of significant injustices. May the commitment of all of us guarantee the respect for the fundamental rights of every human being who is born on the face of the earth."
"Among the fundamental rights of human beings that need to be defended and promoted is the right to health care, which is still non-existent or insufficient in many parts of the world. Diseases for which treatments have already been found and that would be defeated on paper, continue to spread, for example, Hansen's disease, commonly called leprosy. Today's celebration of 'The World Day of Leprosy Sufferers' helps bring attention to those struck by this disease and to promote efforts to wipe it out completely."

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THE PARISH, A PLACE TO LISTEN TO AND ANNOUNCE THE WORD

VATICAN CITY, JAN 26, 2002 (VIS) - In the Paul VI Hall at midday today, John Paul II received 3,000 pilgrims from the Italian diocese of Oria, who by today's gathering are preparing for the pastoral visit of their bishop, Marcello Semeraro.

"It is my heartfelt wish," said the Pope, "that (the pastoral visit) may give rise to an energetic missionary impulse, especially in parishes. ... May parish communities be privileged places for listening to and announcing the Word; houses of prayer centered on the Eucharist; true schools of communion where the fervor of charity overcomes the temptation to superficial and folkloric religious sentiment. May they be environments suitable for educating the faithful to that high degree of ordinary Christian life which is sanctity."

The Pope requested the faithful to give special attention to the family, "reacting firmly to those strong cultural pressures that seek to offend and relativize marriage. It is easier for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life to flower in Christian families."

"I pray to the Lord," he concluded, "that your bishop's pastoral visit may be a moment of singular grace, helping all believers to grow in fraternal communion, listening to God's Word."

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 28, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences two prelates from the Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference on their "ad limina" visit:

- Bishop Joseph Cheng Tsai-fa, of Tainan.
- Bishop Peter Liu Cheng-chung, of Kiayi.

On Saturday, January 26, he received in separate audiences:

- Four prelates from the Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference on their "ad limina" visit:
- Cardinal Paul Shan Kuo-hsi S.J., bishop of Kaohsiung, Taiwan, accompanied by his auxiliary, Bishop Bosco Lin Chi-nan.
- Bishop Joseph Wang Yu-jung of Taichung, Taiwan.
- Bishop Lucas Liu Hsien-tang of Hsinchu, Taiwan.
- Cardinal Paul Poupard, Fr. Bernard Ardura O. Praem. and Fr. Fabio Duque Jaramillo O.F.M., respectively president, secretary and under-secretary of the Pontifical Council for Culture.
- Archbishop Francesco Monterisi, secretary of the Congregation for Bishops.

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INDISSOLUBILITY OF MARRIAGE DOES NOT LIMIT THE LIBERTY OF SPOUSES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 28, 2002 (VIS) - Following annual tradition, on the occasion of the inauguration of the judicial year, the Pope this morning received the dean, prelate auditors, officials, and lawyers of the Tribunal of the Roman Rota.

In his speech, John Paul II spoke of the indissolubility of marriage as an asset for the spouses, for the children, for the Church, and for all of mankind.

"It is important to present in a positive way the indissoluble union," the Holy Father said, "in order to rediscover the good and the beauty of it. Above all, the vision of the indissolubility of marriage as a limit to the liberty of spouses and as a burden, sometimes unbearable, must be overcome. ... To this, it can be added the idea, widespread enough, that indissoluble marriage belongs only to believers, therefore they cannot 'impose' it on the civil society as a whole."

The Holy Father stressed that the indissolubility of marriage "has an objective dimension. It is not merely a subjective fact. Consequently, the good of indissolubility is the good of marriage itself, and the incomprehension of this indissoluble nature constitutes the incomprehension of the essence of marriage."

"One must not surrender to the divorcing mentality: our trust in the natural and supernatural gifts of God to man prevents us. Pastoral activity must sustain and promote the indissolubility of marriage."

John Paul II emphasized that "Every right judgement of the validity or nullity of marriage is a contribution to the culture of indissolubility, not only within the Church but in the world. ... Against the truth of a conjugal bond it is not correct to invoke the liberty of the spouses who, by freely assuming it, committed themselves to respect the objective needs of the marriage reality, which cannot be altered by human freedom."

"It would almost seem," the Pope went on, "that divorce is so much rooted in certain circles of society, that it is not worthwhile to go on opposing it by advocating a mentality of indissolubility in both social customs and civil legislation.
Indeed it is worthwhile!".

The Holy Father then affirmed that, "The essential testimony on the value of the indissolubility is given through the matrimonial life of the spouses, in the fidelity to their bond through the joys and the tests of life. The value of indissolubility cannot be thought to be the object of a simple private choice, it concerns one of the cornerstones of the whole of society."

"To the strong opposition to all legal and administrative measures introducing divorce or that make equal to marriage defacto unions, even homosexual union, it must be coupled a principle, throughout juridical measures, favoring the improvement of the social recognition of true matrimony in the sphere of legal system which unfortunately admits divorce."

On the other hand, civil lawyers "must avoid being personally involved in what could imply a cooperation to divorce. For judges this can be difficult, because the legal systems do not recognize an objection of the conscience that can exempt them from imposing judgment. Despite serious and well-grounded reasons judges can act according to the traditional principles of the actual cooperation to the bad. But they too must find effective means to favour the marriage union, above all by an operation of reconciliation wisely led".

"Lawyers, as independent professionals", the Holy Father concluded, "must always decline to use their profession to an end contrary to justice, such as divorce. They should only collaborate to an action in this sense, when such action is, in the intention of the client, not aimed to the breaking of marriage, but to other legitimate purposes."

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OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 25, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed:
- Msgr. Domenico Calcagno, bursar of the Italian Episcopal Conference, as bishop of Savona-Noli (area 400, population 135,806, Catholics 131,659, priests 152, permanent deacons 5, religious 571), Italy. The bishop-elect was born in Tramontana, Italy, in 1943 and ordained a priest in 1967.

- Bishop Carlito J. Cenzon C.I.C.M., apostolic vicar of Tabuk, Philippines, as apostolic vicar of Baguio (area 2,655, population 789,454, Catholics 517,739, priests 61, religious 391), Philippines.

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 25, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- His Holiness Bartholomeos I, Ecumenical Patriarch, accompanied by an entourage.
- His Beatitude Ignatius IV Hazim, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, accompanied by an entourage.
- His Holiness Mar Dinkha IV, Catholicos Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East, accompanied by an entourage.
- His Beatitude Anastas, archbishop of Tirana, Durres and all Albania, accompanied by an entourage.
- His Excellency Pitirim, metropolitan of Volokolamsk and Juriev, accompanied by an entourage.

This evening he is scheduled to receive Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

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THE DAY OF ASSISI WILL LIVE LONG IN OUR HEARTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 25, 2002 (VIS) - "What happened yesterday in Assisi will live long in our hearts and will, we hope, have a profound echo among the peoples of the world" said the Pope at midday today, during luncheon in the Vatican with the representatives from other religions.

After thanking them for responding to his invitation to participate in the Day of Prayer and recognizing "that your coming here has meant a great effort," he said: "I thank you above all for your willingness to work for peace, and for your courage in declaring before the world that violence and religion can never go together."

He went on: "The door of this house is open to all people, and you come to this table not as strangers but as friends. Yesterday we gathered in the shadow of St. Francis. Here we gather in the shadow of the fisherman Peter. Assisi and Rome, Francis and Peter: the places and the men are so different. Yet they were both bearers of the message of peace sung by angels at Bethlehem: 'Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to His people on earth'."

John Paul II told the religious leaders that "with all our differences, we sit at this table, united in our commitment to the cause of peace. That commitment, born of sincere religious sentiment, is surely what God expects of us. It is what the world seeks in religious men and women. That commitment is the hope we have to offer at this special time. May God grant us all to be humble and effective instruments of His peace."

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SHADOWS WILL NOT BE DISSIPATED WITH WEAPONS BUT WITH LIGHT

VATICAN CITY, JAN 24, 2002 (VIS) - Following the Pope's welcome to the representatives from different religions who are participating in the Day of Prayer for Peace in the World in Assisi, Italy, Cardinal Francois Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, then read some brief words as an introduction to the testimonials for peace.

The delegates then delivered speeches-testimonials in support of peace, in various languages and interspersed with music.

The Pope then made an address:

"We have come to Assisi on a pilgrimage of peace. We are here, as representatives of different religions, to examine ourselves before God concerning our commitment to peace, to ask Him for this gift, to bear witness to our shared longing for a world of greater justice and solidarity. We wish to do our part in fending off the dark clouds of terrorism, hatred, armed conflict, which in these last few months have grown particularly ominous on humanity's horizon. For this reason we wish to listen to one another: we believe that this itself is already a sign of peace. In listening to one another there is already a reply to the disturbing questions that worry us. This already serves to scatter the shadows of suspicion and misunderstanding.

"The shadows will not be dissipated with weapons; darkness is dispelled by sending out bright beams of light. A few days ago I reminded the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See that hatred can only be overcome through love.

"We are meeting in Assisi, where everything speaks of a singular prophet of peace known as Francis. He is loved not only by Christians, but by many other believers and by people who, though far removed from religion, identify with his ideals of justice reconciliation and peace.
"Here the 'poor man of Assisi' invites us first of all to raise a song of gratitude to God for His gifts. We praise God for the beauty of the cosmos and of the earth, ... for the gift of life. ... Life in all its forms is entrusted in a special way to the care of man. With daily-renewed wonder, we note the variety of manifestations of human life, from the complementarity of male and female, to a multiplicity of distinctive gifts belonging to the different cultures and traditions that form a multifaceted and versatile linguistic, cultural and artistic cosmos. This multiplicity is called to form a cohesive whole, in the contact and dialogue that will enrich and bring joy to all."

"History has always known men and women ... (who are) witnesses to peace. By their example they teach us that it is possible to build between individuals and peoples bridges that lead us to come together and walk with one another on the paths of peace."

"Peace! Humanity is always in need of peace, but now more than ever, after the tragic events which have undermined its confidence and in the face of persistent flashpoints of cruel conflict which create anxiety throughout the world. In my Message for January 1, I stressed the two 'pillars' upon which peace rests: commitment to justice and readiness to forgive."

"Justice, first of all, because there can be no true peace without respect for the dignity of persons and peoples. ... It can never be forgotten that situations of oppression and exclusion are often at the source of violence and terrorism. But forgiveness too, because human justice is subject to frailty and to the pressures of individual and group egoism."

"Our gathering today, in a context of dialogue with God, offers us a chance to reaffirm that in God we find pre-eminently the union of justice and mercy. ... That is why religions are at the service of peace. It is the duty of religions, and of their leaders above all, to foster in the people of our time a renewed sense of the urgency of building peace."

"This was recognized by those who took part in the inter-religious gathering in the Vatican in October 1999. They affirmed that religious traditions have the resources needed to overcome fragmentation and to promote mutual friendship and respect among peoples. ... It is essential, therefore, that religious people and communities should in the clearest and most radical way repudiate violence, all violence, starting with the violence that seeks to clothe itself in religion, appealing even to the most holy name of God in order to offend man. To offend against man is, most certainly, to offend against God. There is no religious goal which can possibly justify the use of violence by man against man.

"I now turn in a special way to you, my Christian brothers and sisters. Our Lord and Master Jesus Christ calls us to be apostles of peace. He made His own the Golden Rule well known to ancient wisdom: 'Whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them,' and God's commandment to Moses: 'Love your neighbor as yourself'."
"Brothers and sisters gathered here from different parts of the world. ... Let us ask that we be given the gift of recognizing the path of peace, of right relationship with God and among ourselves. ... We have a single goal and a shared intention, but we will pray in different ways, respecting one another's religious traditions. In this too, deep down, there is a message: we wish to show the world that the genuine impulse to prayer does not lead to opposition and still less to disdain of others, but rather to constructive dialogue, a dialogue in which each one, without relativism or syncretism of any kind, becomes more deeply aware of the duty to bear witness and to proclaim.

"Now is the time to overcome decisively those temptations to hostility which have not been lacking in the religious history of humanity. In fact, when these temptations appeal to religion, they show a profoundly immature face of religion. True religious feeling leads rather to a perception in one way or another of the mystery of God, the source of goodness, and that is a wellspring of respect and harmony between peoples: indeed religion is the chief antidote to violence and conflict."

At the end of his address, the Pope, referring to the wind which had blown throughout, recalled the biblical phrase: "the Spirit blows where He will" and expressed the hope that the same Spirit accompany all those who prayed for peace in Assisi.

Following this first part of the Day of Prayer, the Pope invited those present to proceed to the designated places in order to pray for peace. John Paul II and the Christian delegations, who made up the largest group, transferred to the lower basilica.

Once the procession formed by the Pope and representatives of Churches and ecclesial communities reached the altar, the Books of the Gospel were incensed and the Holy Father introduced the celebration. One of the representatives pronounced a biblical text from the pulpit. After reciting three prayers for peace, interspersed by brief moments of silence, the Pope intoned the Our Father, joined by the whole congregation. The gathering left the basilica to the accompaniment of the choir.

Later, the Pope and the representatives from the various religions met for lunch at the refectory of the Convent of St. Francis of Assisi; the accompanying delegations were welcomed at other locations within the convent.

This afternoon at 3:30 p.m. in the Lower Square of St. Francis, ten representatives will read texts in different languages expressing their common commitment to peace. The Holy Father will then exclaim: "Violence never again! War never again! Terrorism never again! In the name of God, may every religion bring upon the earth Justice and Peace, Forgiveness and Life, Love!" Then, the Pope, followed by each of the representatives will light a candle as a symbol of this commitment. The Holy Father will exchange a sign of peace and communion with all the representatives and pronounce a few brief words of farewell.

Before taking the train to return to the Vatican together with the delegates, John Paul II will briefly greet the nuns in the Basilica of St. Clare and the Friars Minor in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels.

The peace train is expected to arrive at the Vatican City railway station at 7:45 p.m.

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DAY OF PRAYER FOR PEACE IN THE WORLD

VATICAN CITY, JAN 24, 2002 (VIS) - Following a two-hour journey in a train composed of seven wagons that departed from the Vatican City railway station at 8:40 a.m. today, the Pope and around 300 representatives from the world's different religions arrived in Assisi, Italy, in order to participate in the Day of Prayer for Peace in the World.

Upon arrival, John Paul II travelled by Popemobile to St. Francis Square where he welcomed the representatives who are participating in the gathering, accompanied by their respective delegations.

The Pope then delivered his welcome address:

"Thank-you for accepting my invitation to take part in this gathering of prayer for peace in Assisi. It brings to mind the meeting here in 1986, and is in a sense an important continuation of that event. It shares the same goal: to pray for peace, which is above all a gift to be implored from God with fervent and trusting insistence. In times of greater anxiety about the fate of the world, we sense more clearly than ever the duty to commit ourselves personally to the defence and promotion of the fundamental good which is peace.

"I extend a special greeting to the Ecumenical Patriarch, His Holiness Bartholomeos I, and those who have accompanied him; to the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, His Beatitude Ignatius IV; to the Catholicos Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East, His Holiness Mar Dinkha IV; to the Archbishop of Tirana, Durres and all Albania, His Beatitude Anastas; to the delegates of the Patriarchs of Alexandria, Jerusalem, Moscow, Serbia, Romania and of the Orthodox Churches of Bulgaria, Cyprus and Poland; to the delegates of the Ancient Churches of the East, the Syro-Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, the Orthodox Church of Ethiopia, the Syro-Malankar Orthodox Church. I greet the representative of Archbishop George Carey of Canterbury, the many representatives of the Churches and ecclesial communities, Christian federations and alliances of the West; the secretary general of the Ecumenical Council of Churches; the distinguished representatives of world Judaism who have joined us for this special day of prayer for peace.

"I also wish to greet most cordially the followers of the various religions: the representatives of Islam who have come from Albania, Saudi Arabia, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Egypt, Jerusalem, Jordan, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Senegal, the U.S.A., Sudan and Turkey; the Buddhist representatives from Taiwan and Great Britain; the Hindu representatives from India; the representatives of African Traditional Religion who have come from Ghana and Benin; and also the Japanese delegates representing various religions and movements; the Sikh representatives from India, Singapore and Great Britain; and the Confucian, Zoroastrian and Jain delegates. I cannot mention everyone by name, but I do wish my welcome to include all of you, dearly cherished guests, whom I thank once again for having agreed to take part in this important day.

"I am grateful too to the cardinals and bishops here present; in particular to Cardinal Edward Egan, archbishop of New York, the city so terribly affected by the tragic events of September 11. I greet the representatives of the episcopate of those countries where the need for peace is especially felt."

In closing, the Holy Father greeted Cardinal Lorenzo Antonetti, pontifical delegate for the Patriarchal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi; the Conventual Franciscans; Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi; other public authorities present, and all those participating in the gathering especially, he said, "you, dear young people who have kept vigil through the night. God grant that today's gathering may produce those fruits of peace for the whole world which we all so ardently desire."

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DAY OF ASSISI: SINCERE RESOLVE FOR JUSTICE AND FORGIVENESS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 23, 2002 (VIS) - In today's general audience which was held in the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father spoke on chapter 36 of the Book of Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) which contains a prayer for the holy people of God.

"There," said the Pope, "the first thing we find is an imploration to God to intervene in support of Israel and against the foreign nations that oppress her. ... The God of the Bible is not indifferent in the face of evil. ... He is on the side of the victims and appears as the stern judge of the violent, the oppressors and the victors who know no pity. However, His intervention is not aimed at destruction."

John Paul II affirmed that the second part of the hymn "makes no more reference to the enemy, but asks God's favor for Israel, it implores His mercy for the chosen people and for the holy city, Jerusalem."

"In the Bible, the lamentations of the suffering are never expended in desperation, but are always open to hope. At the basis lies the certainty that the Lord does not abandon His children, He does not let those He has made fall from His hands."

After extending greetings in various languages to the pilgrims who attended the audience, the Pope recalled that tomorrow he will travel to Assisi, together with representatives from other religions, for "a day dedicated to prayer for peace in the world. ... I trust that this initiative - apart from its spiritual effects which lie beyond human control - may contribute to orienting souls and decisions towards sincere and courageous resolutions of justice and forgiveness. If this comes about, we will have contributed to consolidating the foundations of authentic and lasting peace.

"Consequently, I invite the Catholic faithful to unite their prayers to those that tomorrow, at Assisi, we will raise together as Christians; at the same time cultivating feelings of warmth in their hearts for the followers of other religions who have come to Assisi to pray for peace."

AG;ECCLESIASTICUS; PRAYER PEACE;...;...;VIS;20020123;Word: 350;

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 23, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in audience Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

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ARCHBISHOP FOLEY: CREDIBILITY, CORNERSTONE OF JOURNALISM

VATICAN CITY, JAN 23, 2002 (VIS) - On Tuesday, January 22, Archbishop John P. Foley, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, gave an address at the Forum of the Association of Taiwan Journalists. The event took place in Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.

In his speech, the archbishop recalled the document that his dicastery published for World Communications Day 2000. He concentrated especially on the "credibility" of information, which he defined as "the most precious characteristic of a journalist," and on the need to "promote human development" by means of the communications media.

"Faced with grave injustices, it is not enough for communicators simply to say that their job is to report things as they are. Even more fundamentally, communication structures and policies and the allocation of technology are factors helping to make some people 'information rich' and others 'information poor' at a time when prosperity, and even survival, depend upon information."

"The most important thing for each of us is to maintain our integrity and our credibility in a world filled with the temptation at least to compromise, if not surrender. The public will never forgive us if we betray them; perhaps even more telling, we will never forgive ourselves if we betray our trust to be servants of the truth and of a moral and just society."

...;INFORMATION CREDIBILITY;...;TAIWAN; FOLEY;VIS;20020123;Word: 230;

HOLY SEE ACCEDES TO CONVENTION AGAINST BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 23, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy See has acceded to the "Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction," which was adopted by the General Assembly of the United nations on December 16, 1971, and entered into force on March 26, 1975.

On January 4, 2002, Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo, apostolic nuncio in the United States, deposited the instruments of accession with the competent authorities of the United States government.
"The Holy See ... wishes to encourage the whole international community resolutely to pursue the paths leading to a system of disarmament of weapons of mass destruction, as part of the process of global and complete disarmament.

"The tragic events of September 11, 2001, have led to a clearer and more widespread awareness of the need to build a culture of multilateral dialogue and a climate of trust between all the members of the human family. At this particular point in history, instruments of cooperation and prevention constitute one of the most effective safeguards in the face of heinous acts such as the use of biological weapons capable of indiscriminately striking at innocent civilian populations."

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OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 23, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed Fr. Jose Song Sui-Wan S.D.B., director of the "Sao Luiz" Salesian Oratory in the diocese of Limeira, Brazil, as bishop of Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira (area 286,866, population 55,000, Catholics 45,000, priests 20, religious 64), Brazil. The bishop-elect was born in Shangay, China, in 1941 and ordained a priest in 1971. He succeeds Bishop Walter Ivan de Azevedo, whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same diocese the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.

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"INTERNET: A NEW FORUM FOR PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL"

VATICAN CITY, JAN 22, 2002 (VIS) - Made public today was a message from John Paul II for the 36th World Communications Day, which is to be held on May 12 and whose theme is to be: "Internet, A New Forum for Proclaiming the Gospel."

The message was published in Spanish, English, French, Italian, German and Portuguese. Some extracts are given below:

"The Church in every age continues the work begun on the day of Pentecost, when the Apostles, in the power of the Holy Spirit, went forth into the streets of Jerusalem to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in many tongues. Through the succeeding centuries, this evangelizing mission spread to the far corners of the earth, as Christianity took root in many places and learned to speak the diverse languages of the world."

"But the history of evangelization is not just a matter of geographic expansion, for the Church has also had to cross many cultural thresholds. ... The age of the great discoveries, the Renaissance and the invention of printing, the Industrial Revolution and the birth of the modern world: these too were threshold moments which demanded new forms of evangelization. Now, with the communications and information revolution in full swing, the Church stands unmistakably at another decisive gateway. It is fitting therefore that on this World Communications Day 2002 we should reflect on the subject: 'Internet: A New Forum for Proclaiming the Gospel.'

"The Internet is certainly a new 'forum' understood in the ancient Roman sense of a public space. ... lt was a crowded and bustling urban space, which both reflected the surrounding culture and created a culture of its own. This is no less true of cyberspace, which is as it were a new frontier opening up at the beginning of this new millennium. ... For the Church the new world of cyberspace is a summons to the great adventure of using its potential to proclaim the Gospel message."

"The Church approaches this new medium with realism and confidence. Like other communications media, it is a means, not an end in itself. The Internet can offer magnificent opportunities for evangelization if used with competence and a clear awareness of its strengths and weaknesses. Above all, by providing information and stirring interest, it makes possible an initial encounter with the Christian message, especially among the young who increasingly turn to the world of cyberspace as a window on the world. It is important, therefore, that the Christian community think of very practical ways of helping those who first make contact through the Internet to move from the virtual world of cyberspace to the real world of Christian community.
"At a subsequent stage, the Internet can also provide the kind of follow-up which evangelization requires. ... There already exist on the Net countless sources of information, documentation and education about the Church, her history and tradition, her doctrine and her engagement in every field in all parts of the world. It is clear, then, that Internet ... can certainly provide a unique supplement and support in both preparing for the encounter with Christ in community, and sustaining the new believer in the journey of faith which then begins.

"There are nevertheless certain necessary ... questions which arise in using the Internet in the cause of evangelization. The essence of the Internet in fact is that it provides an almost unending flood of information, much of which passes in a moment. In a culture which feeds on the ephemeral there can easily be a risk of believing that it is facts that matter, rather than values. ... Despite its enormous potential for good, some of the degrading and damaging ways in which the Internet can be used are already obvious to all, and public authorities surely have a responsibility to guarantee that this marvelous instrument serves the common good and does not become a source of harm.

"Furthermore, the Internet radically redefines a person's psychological relationship to time and space. Attention is rivetted on what is tangible, useful, instantly available; the stimulus for deeper thought and reflection may be lacking. ... Understanding and wisdom are the fruit of a contemplative eye upon the world, and do not come from a mere accumulation of facts. ... They are the result of an insight which penetrates the deeper meaning of things in relation to one another and to the whole of reality. Moreover, as a forum in which practically everything is acceptable and almost nothing is lasting, the Internet favors a relativistic way of thinking and sometimes feeds the flight from personal responsibility and commitment."

"The fact that through the Internet people multiply their contacts in ways hitherto unthinkable opens up wonderful possibilities for spreading the Gospel. But it is also true that electronically mediated relationships can never take the place of the direct human contact required for genuine evangelization. For evangelization always depends upon the personal witness of the one sent to evangelize. How does the Church lead from the kind of contact made possible by the Internet to the deeper communication demanded by Christian proclamation? How do we build upon the first contact and exchange of information which the Internet makes possible?

"There is no doubt that the electronic revolution holds out the promise of great positive breakthroughs for the developing world; but there is also the possibility that it will in fact aggravate existing inequalities as the information and communications gap widens. How can we ensure that the information and communications revolution which has the Internet as its prime engine will work in favor of the globalization of human development and solidarity, objectives closely linked to the Church's evangelizing mission? ... How can we ensure that this wondrous instrument first conceived in the context of military operations can now serve the cause of peace? Can it favor that culture of dialogue, participation, solidarity and reconciliation without which peace cannot flourish? The Church believes it can; and to ensure that this is what will happen she is determined to enter this new forum, armed with the Gospel of Christ, the Prince of Peace.

"The Internet causes billions of images to appear on millions of computer monitors around the planet. From this galaxy of sight and sound will the face of Christ emerge and the voice of Christ be heard? For it is only when His face is seen and His voice heard that the world will know the glad tidings of our redemption. ...Therefore, on this World Communications Day, I dare to summon the whole Church bravely to cross this new threshold, to put out into the deep of the Net, so that now as in the past the great engagement of the Gospel and culture may show to the world 'the glory of God on the face of Christ'."

MESS;WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY;...;...;VIS;20020122;Word: 1130;

VIETNAM: EVANGELIZATION AND FORMATION OF ALL THE FAITHFUL

VATICAN CITY, JAN 22, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, John Paul II received members of the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, who have just completed their "ad limina" visit, and thanked them for their "perseverance and valiant testimony" in the task with which they have been entrusted.

The Pope began by speaking of the evangelical and missionary priorities of the Church in Vietnam. "The vital importance of the mission," he said, "must always inspire the courageous decisions you make with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the main agent of evangelization. With the help of the Spirit you will be able to give an effective response to the demands of announcing the Gospel."

After recalling that in their five-yearly reports the bishops had referred to the need for developing both initial catechetical formation and the permanent formation of priests, male and female religious and lay people, he said: "The many years of conflict, the dispersal of Christian communities and the disparity in levels of education among the faithful have rendered the planning and organization of such formation difficult. ... It is particularly urgent that everyone be offered solid teaching in the Church's social doctrine."

"The Catholic Church," he went on, "is also called to share its hope, tirelessly proposing the path of dialogue. ... A confident and constructive dialogue among all members of civil society will enable fresh hope to be given to all the people of Vietnam."

The Holy Father emphasized that the Church is not to be confused with the political community, though "healthy collaboration" must exist between them. He went on to add: "The Church invites her members to commit themselves faithfully to the development of all people and to building a just, united and equal society. ... In order to implement this 'healthy collaboration,' the Church hopes that the political community will totally respect her independence and autonomy. That most precious advantage that is religious liberty ... concerns both individuals and religious communities."

"I hope that all members of the nation will come together to promote a civilization of love based on the universal values of peace, justice, solidarity and liberty."

John Paul II highlighted the "vitality and courage" of the Vietnamese laity "who live and celebrate their faith in conditions that are often difficult." He asked that they be given a formation "that makes them witnesses in social, political and economic life."

The Pope made reference to priests' need to receive "a spiritual and intellectual formation appropriate to the missionary challenges they must face." Finally, he expressed his joy at the number of vocations to the consecrated life, especially to the female religious life, and encouraged consecrated men and women "not to slacken in their missionary commitment and to commit themselves with renewed fervor to the announcement of Christ and to the service of all human beings."

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OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 22, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father gave his assent to the election to the dignity of bishop of Archpriest Kevork Khazoumian, patriarchal exarch of Jerusalem and Amman. The election was carried out canonically by the Synod of Bishops of the Armenian Catholic Church, meeting in Rome on October 15, 2001. The bishop-elect was born in Chiah, Lebanon, in 1935 and ordained a priest in 1960.

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THE VATICAN CITY RAILWAY STATION

VATICAN CITY, JAN 22, 2002 (VIS) - The Vatican City Railway Station, whence John Paul II will travel to Assisi on January 24 to participate in the World Day of Prayer for Peace, lies within the walls of Vatican City, a short distance from the Governorate, in a large square surrounded by gardens and dominated by a view of the dome of St. Peter's. Pope Pius XI, in whose pontificate the station was built, on a visit to the construction site exclaimed: "This is the most beautiful station in the world!"

Building work began following the signing of the Lateran Pacts on February 11, 1929, between the Holy See and the then Kingdom of Italy. According to this agreement, the Italian State was to build a railway station within Vatican City. Work began on April 3 of that same year and the first locomotive entered the Vatican (to check the working of the points) in March 1932. However, it was only in 1934 that the two parts of the railway built in the two separate States were officially consigned. Apart from the station building itself, the works also included a link to the Italian rail network on the Rome-Viterbo line.

The complex was built by Pope Pius XI's favored architect, Giuseppe Momo. Inaugurated in 1933, the station measures 61 meters by 21.5 meters; the height of the central block is 16.85 meters and of the wings, 5.95 meters. The main building includes a large hall paved in colored marble and with a coffered ceiling. The most noteworthy decorative feature are the eight marble columns from the Italian region of Versilia. The exterior is of travertine and is decorated with sculptures by Eduardo Rubino (the pontifical emblem supported by figures representing Thought and Action), and two large bas-reliefs: the boat of St. Peter (symbolizing the most ancient means of spreading the Gospel) and the prophet Elias' chariot of fire (representing the most modern means, air transport).

However, Pius XI never actually used the railway station which had originally been conceived as a place where the pontiff could meet personalities visiting the Holy See, and as an arrival point (especially during Jubilees) for multitudes of pilgrims. No "papal train" was ever constructed, as had originally been planned, and neither does the Vatican now have, nor has it ever had, its own railway workers or rolling stock.

The first pope to use the station was John XXIII on October 4, 1962, on his pilgrimage from Rome to Loreto and Assisi, one week prior to the start of Vatican Council II.

From the pontificate of Pius XI up to our own time, the railway station has been used, above all, for the transport of goods. Even this has been much reduced of late due to the speed and economic advantages of road transport. Only on a few occasions has the station been used for passengers.

On April 11, 1959, at the express wish of John XXIII, a train departed from the Vatican station carrying the remains of Pius X to Venice. On its return, his coffin arrived at Rome's central rail station, Termini, with that of St. John Bosco and together they were taken to St. Peter's Basilica.

On other occasions, special trains have used the station (pilgrimages of the sick, tourists visiting the Vatican museums, a steam train taking young people around Italy).

The first occasion that John Paul II used the station was when he travelled on the Italian Railways' train "Harlequin" to Termini to mark the 21st Day of the Railway Worker on November 8, 1979. The journey to Assisi will be the first time he uses the Vatican railway line for a journey outside Rome.

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PRIESTLY ASSOCIATION OF ST. JOHN MARY VIANNEY: FULL COMMUNION

VATICAN CITY, JAN 19, 2002 (VIS) - Yesterday evening, a public ceremony took place during which Bishop Licinio Rangel and all the members of the Priestly Association of St. John Mary Vianney - a group of followers of Archbishop Lefebvre in the diocese of Campos, Brazil - returned to full communion with the Chair of St. Peter.

The ceremony, which was held in the cathedral of Sao Salvador in Campos, was presided by Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos, prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy and president of the Pontifical Commission "Ecclesia Dei." The aim of this commission is to collaborate with bishops, with the dicasteries of the Roman Curia, and with other bodies for the purpose of facilitating the full ecclesial communion of priests, seminarians, communities and religious, until now linked in some way to the Fraternity founded by Archbishop Lefebvre, who may wish to remain united to Peter's Successor in the Catholic Church, maintaining their own spiritual and liturgical traditions.

A communique made public yesterday evening outlined the various stages of the process of this return to Rome: On August 15 last year, Bishop Licinio Rangel and the priests of the Association of St. John Mary Vianney sent a letter to the Pope "expressing their 'perfect communion with the Chair of St. Peter,' recognizing the primacy of the Pope and his mandate over the Universal Church and declaring that 'for nothing in the world would we wish to disassociate ourselves from the Rock upon which Jesus Christ built His Church'."

After recalling that Bishop Rangel was consecrated by prelates ordained by Archbishop Lefebvre, the communique affirms that on December 25, 2001, the Pope accepted the request from the Brazilian followers of Archbishop Lefebvre and ordered that the Association should be erected as an apostolic administration with personal jurisdiction, directly subject to the Holy See. He conceded the use of the Roman Rite and the liturgical discipline of St. Pius V, with the adaptations introduced by his successors up to Blessed John XXIII.

During yesterday's ceremony, "Bishop Rangel made the profession of faith and the vow of fidelity to the Roman Pontiff, in accordance with current practice."

"In this context," the communique concludes, "the Holy Father, 'with profound joy' and 'in order to render full communion effective,' concedes the remission of all canonical sanctions to all those who have incurred them."

Today also, John Paul II appointed Bishop Licinio Rangel as apostolic administrator of the personal apostolic administration of "St. John Mary Vianney" in Campos, Brazil.

...;RETURN FULL COMMUNION;...;CASTRILLON; RANGEL;VIS;20020121;Word: 420;

UNITY OF CHRISTIANS IS THE FRUIT OF GRACE

VATICAN CITY, JAN 19, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received an ecumenical delegation from Finland for the occasion of the feast of St. Henrik, apostle and patron of that country. "It is a happy coincidence," said the Pope, "that your visit falls during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity."

The Holy Father affirmed that "it is vital that Christians should pray incessantly for unity, which will come not as the fruit of human effort, but as a grace given at a time and in a way which we do not know. Our prayer however must be joined by a determination to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ with one heart and voice, 'so that the world may believe'."

"We," the Pope concluded, "have already travelled far on the ecumenical journey and there can be no turning back. Certainly the Catholic Church remains 'committed irrevocably to following the path of the ecumenical venture.' ... The Spirit must lead us, step by step, to discover the things that we can do together to hasten the full and visible communion of all Christians."

AC;UNITY CHRISTIANS;...;...;VIS;20020121;Word: 190;

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 19, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed:

- Fr. Gerardo Antonio Zerdin Bukovec O.F.M., pastor of the mission of Atalaya, as coadjutor of the apostolic vicariate of San Ramon (area 80,000, population 450,000, Catholics 356,000, priests 17, religious 51), Peru. The bishop-elect was born in Lendava, Slovenia, in 1950 and ordained a priest in 1975.

- Fr. Jose Luis Escobar Alas, vicar general of San Vicente (area 2,044, population 478,060, Catholics 457,300, priests 43, religious 148), El Salvador, as auxiliary of the same diocese. The bishop-elect was born in San Salvador, El Salvador, in 1959 and ordained a priest in 1982.

- Fr. Genesio Tarasco S.D.B., bursar of the Salesian Inspectorate of Turin, Italy, as bureau chief at the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

NEC; NEA; NA;...;...;BUKOVEC; ESCOBAR; TARASCO;VIS;20020121;Word: 130;

PONTIFICAL LEGATE TO THE DEDICATION OF THE CATHEDRAL IN TIRANA

VATICAN CITY, JAN 19, 2002 (VIS) - Made public today was a letter from the Pope, written in Latin and dated December 20, in which he appoints Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano as pontifical legate at the dedication of the new cathedral church of Tirana, Albania. The event is due to take place on January 26, 2002.

Cardinal Sodano will be accompanied by Msgrs. Ambrose Madtha and Piero Pioppo, respectively counsellor at the apostolic nunciature in Albania and nunciature secretary working at the Secretariat of State, and by Fr. George Frendo O.P., vicar general of Durres-Tirane.

JPII-LETTER;LEGATE;...;SODANO; ALBANIA;VIS;20020121;Word: 110;

THE PRIEST, MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL IN THE NAME OF THE CHURCH

VATICAN CITY, JAN 19, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received superiors and students from the "Almo Collegio Capranica", the Roman seminary that forms candidates for the priesthood from Rome and the rest of Italy and the world, for the occasion of the upcoming feast of their patroness, St. Agnes.

The Pope told the students that they were "called to be witnesses and 'examples to the flock' that will be entrusted to you. To be such, it is necessary that you acquire the interior disposition and particular forms of behavior that lie at the heart of priestly spirituality."

"Be, moreover, faithful to the Church, and in her always work in communion with your bishops. Indeed, a priest is not a man of isolated and independent initiatives; he is a minister of the Gospel in the name of the Church. All his apostolic activities come from the Church and to her they return."

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"THE CONTRIBUTION OF RELIGIONS TO PEACE"

VATICAN CITY, JAN 21, 2002 (VIS) - From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday January 23 in the Vatican's new Synod Hall, a forum will take place entitled: "The contribution of religions to peace." The gathering will be presided by Cardinal Francis Arinze, president of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue, while Bishop Michael Fitzgerald, secretary of the same council, will act as moderator.

According to a communique made public today, the forum aims to be "a moment of exchange between official representatives of the different religions who will take part in the Day of Prayer for Peace in the World, to be held in Assisi on January 24. Participants will be given the opportunity to express a brief message."

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BLESSING OF THE LAMBS FOR THE FEAST OF ST. AGNES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 21, 2002 (VIS) - Pope John Paul, continuing an ancient tradition, this morning blessed several baby lambs whose wool will be used to make the palliums given every year to new metropolitan archbishops on June 29, Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles.

The blessing of the lambs, who are under one year of age, takes place on or near January 21, feast of St. Agnes for whom the traditional symbol is a lamb. This virgin-martyr died about 350 and is buried in the basilica named after her on Rome's Via Nomentana. Traditionally the lambs are raised by the Trappist Fathers of the Abbey of the Three Fountains and, when shorn, their wool is made into the palliums by the sisters of St. Cecilia.

JPII-BLESSING;LAMBS;...;ST.AGNES;VIS;20020121;Word: 140;

HOLY LAND: RESTART THE PROCESS OF PEACE

VATICAN CITY, JAN 20, 2002 (VIS) - Following the angelus, John Paul II launched a new appeal for peace in the Holy Land, in the wake of the incidents and attacks of last week:

"Once again - and with great sadness - I am compelled to mention the dramatic situation in the Holy Land where every day repeated attacks and reprisals bring a harvest of blood and death.

"This perverse logic does not lead to any solution and it is painful to note how the main players in the conflict have started down a blind alley.

"I cannot but make a heartfelt appeal to the leaders of the conflicting sides to put an end to these clashes, and to the international community not to abandon them. It is vital that together we identify the instruments that may restart the process of peace, thus enabling Israelis and Palestinians to look to the future.

"May God, through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, illuminate the minds and hearts of all men and women of good will!"

John Paul II went on the express his solidarity with the victims of the eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano, and requested help from the international community:

"I would also like to give an assurance of my spiritual closeness to the people affected by the fury of the Nyiragongo volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which for some days has renewed its activity with unprecedented violence. May there be no lack of real assistance on our part to those who are suffering this great calamity."

Furthermore, Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano sent a telegram to the bishop of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, giving an assurance of the Pope's prayers for those affected by the catastrophe, and his closeness to them.

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JOHN PAUL II EXTENDS INVITATION TO JOIN IN PRAYER FOR PEACE

VATICAN CITY, JAN 20, 2002 (VIS) - Before praying the angelus at midday today, the Pope spoke on the Day of Prayer for Peace, due to be held on January 24, and extended an invitation to "believers and people of good will from the whole world" to join the "pilgrimage by train" he will make to Assisi because, he said, "we are all called to build peace together."

"I would particularly like to invite religious and monastic communities, especially the enclosed orders, as well as children, the sick and the elderly to join us in prayer."

John Paul II affirmed that following the attack of September 11 and faced by the risk of fresh conflicts, "believers feel the urgent need to intensify their prayers for peace, because this is, above all, a gift from God." On this theme, he recalled that December 14, 2001, had been a day of fasting, while Thursday January 24, will be a day of prayer for peace, to be held in Assisi, Italy. "Thus," he said, "the experience of October 27, 1986, will be repeated, when, for the first time, the town of St. Francis saw representatives from the world's religions gather within its walls in order to raise to heaven a fervent appeal for peace."

After highlighting that the Day of Prayer for Peace "does not intend in any way to indulge religious syncretism," he emphasized that "men and women from different religions can not only collaborate but, indeed, must commit themselves ever more in the defence and promotion of the effective recognition of human rights, an indispensable condition for true and lasting peace. In the face of the violence that presently ravages so many regions of the world, they feel the need to demonstrate that religion is a uniting factor, thus renouncing and isolating all those who employ the name of God for ends and using methods that, in reality, offend Him."

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 21, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences five prelates from the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, on their "ad limina" visit:
- Bishop Thomas Nguyen Van Tan of Vinh Long.
- Bishop Joseph Hoang Van Thiem of Bui Chu.
- Bishop Thomas Nguyen Van Tram, auxiliary of Xuan Loc.
- Msgr. Domencio Nguyen Char Hung, diocesan administrator of Hai Phong.
- Msgr. Joseph Nguyen Thai Ha, diocesan administrator of Hung Hoa.

On Saturday, January 19, he received in separate audiences:

- Four prelates from the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, on their "ad limina" visit:
- Bishop Pierre Tran Dinh Tu of Phu Cuong.
- Bishop Paul Bui Van Doc of My Tho.
- Bishop Joseph Ngo Quang Kiet of Lang Son et Cao Bang.
- Bishop Pierre Nguyen Soan of Quy Nhon.
- Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, accompanied by Bishop Marc Ouellet and Msgr. Francesco Eleuterio Fortino, respectively secretary and under-secretary of the same pontifical council.
- Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops.

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 18, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:
- Three prelates from the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, on their "ad limina" visit:
- Bishop Pierre Nguyen Van Nhon of Da Lat.
- Bishop Paul-Marie Cao Dinh Thuyen of Vinh.
- Bishop Joseph Nguyen Tich Duc of Ban Me Thuot.
- Ignacio Quintana, ambassador of Bolivia, on a farewell visit.

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INFORMATION CONCERNING THE DAY OF PRAYER FOR PEACE IN ASSISI

VATICAN CITY, JAN 18, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, Holy See Press Office Director Joaquin Navarro-Valls informed journalists concerning the order of events for the Day of Prayer for Peace in the World which is due to be held in Assisi, Italy, on January 24.

On the night of January 23 a prayer vigil for peace will be held, organized by the Italian Episcopal Conference. On the same day, in the Vatican's Synod Hall, there will be a meeting of representatives of non-Christian religions.

Navarro-Valls said that the Pope will travel by train, departing from the Vatican City railway station at 8:30 a.m. accompanied by the representatives who will participate in the Day of Prayer. There are to be no stops on the journey, which is due to last two hours.

The representatives from the various religions will come together in two of the three planned ceremonies. At 11 a.m., testimonials in favor of peace will be delivered in the Lower Square of St. Francis. At 12:30 p.m. the groups will divide to various locations in order to pray for peace; the Christians, led by the Pope, will gather in the Lower Basilica of St. Francis. During the final ceremony, in the Lower Square of St. Francis at 3:30 p.m., there will be readings in ten different languages, expressing the common commitment to peace. In a symbolic gesture, the Pope will then light a candle which will be placed in the basilica.

Prior to returning to the Vatican by train in the company of the other representatives, John Paul II will deliver a brief greeting to the nuns in the Basilica of St. Clare and to the Friars Minor in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels.

Although the number of participants may yet grow, as of today representatives are expected from 12 Patriarchates and Orthodox Churches; from six Patriarchates and ancient Churches of the East; from 15 Churches, ecclesial communities, federations, alliances and world organizations of the West; from Judaism, Buddhism, Tenri-kyo, Shintoism, Islam, Jainism, Sikhism, Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, traditional African Religions and Christianity, as well as various cardinals, archbishops and bishops. Also taking part will be representatives from episcopates of countries that are at war or racked by violence and terrorism - Algeria, Angola, Burundi, Colombia, Indonesia. Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Rwanda, Spain, Sri Lanka and Sudan - as well as civil authorities and a group of invited guests.

On January 25, the Pope will invite all the representatives who participated in the Assisi meeting to lunch in the Vatican.

...;PEACE PRAYER DAY;...;ASSISI;VIS;20020118;Word: 430;

COLLABORATE IN DISSEMINATING DOCTRINAL DOCUMENTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 18, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, John Paul II received participants in the plenary assembly of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which took place this week in the Vatican.

In his address the Pope made reference to some of the themes that were considered during the meeting. On the subject of the doctrinal documents published by the congregation, he highlighted the problem "of assimilating their contents and of collaborating in disseminating them and in applying the practical consequences that arise therefrom. This affects all the dicasteries of the Roman Curia."

As to the problem of transmitting fundamental truths to all the faithful, "the question is more difficult and calls for attention and profound consideration. To what extent do the communications media have a bearing upon this difficulty of reception? ... Or, again, how much depends upon the difficulty in accepting the strict criteria of evangelical language, language that has, nonetheless, the power to liberate?" In order to reply to these questions, he added, it is important that we listen to one another and that there be a greater involvement of episcopal conferences, of individual bishops and of all those who announce the Gospel. "Finally, there is also a problem of style, of coherence in life."

The Holy Father went on to discuss the question of the loss of relevance of natural law. "Here," he said, "we are confronted by a doctrine that belongs to the great heritage of human knowledge, purified and brought to fullness in the light of Revelation." Natural law "also allows for a broad base of dialogue with people who have different orientations and backgrounds, with a view to seeking the common good. At such an anxious moment for the destiny of so many nations, communities and individuals, ... I can only be happy at studies undertaken with the aim of rediscovering the value of such a doctrine, in view also of the challenges that await Christian legislators in their duty to defend man's dignity and rights."

AC;FUNDAMENTAL TRUTHS;...;CDF;VIS;20020118;Word: 340;

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 18, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed:

- Fr. Dominic Lumon, vicar general of Imphal (area 22,356, population 2,231,000, Catholics 70,000, priests 94, religious 201), India, as coadjutor archbishop of the same archdiocese. The archbishop-elect was born in Mongsang Pangtha, India, in 1948 and ordained a priest in 1977.

- Bishop Salvatore Fisichella, auxiliary of Rome, as rector of the Pontifical Lateran University and president of the John Paul II Pontifical Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family.

NEC; NA;...;...;LUMON; FISICHELLA ;VIS;20020118;Word: 80;

RESTORE CONFIDENCE IN THE FACE OF FEAR OF TERRORISM

VATICAN CITY, JAN 17, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, John Paul II received members of the General Inspectorate for Public Security at the Vatican in a meeting that traditionally takes place at the start of the year, and thanked them for their collaboration.

"Thank-you," said the Holy Father, "because you contribute in helping to protect the many people - the unknown and the famous - who come to visit the Pope. May your generous and demanding service be abundantly rewarded by the Lord."

After recalling the "tragic terrorist attacks" of September 11, the Holy Father stressed that "vigilance has become an even more compelling task, in order to prevent any possible risk."

"As a result of terrorism, a feeling of fear has spread among people giving rise to anxiety, mistrust and closure. Thus, although appropriate measures must be adopted in order to guarantee the security of all, at the same time it is necessary to restore people's confidence, within a society that can comprehend more open and united relationships. The Church also contributes to this process with her wide-ranging spiritual activity."

AC;...;...;VATICAN SECURITY;VIS;20020117;Word: 190

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 17, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father erected the ecclesiastical province of Kumasi (area 5,118, population 2,000,000, Catholics 200,000, priests 46, religious 88), Ghana, dividing it from the ecclesiastical province of Cape Coast, Ghana, and assigning to it as suffragans the dioceses of Obuasi, Goaso, Sunyani and Konongo-Mampong. He appointed Bishop Peter Kwasi Sarpong of Kumasi as first metropolitan archbishop of the new ecclesiastical province.

ECE; NER;...;...;SARPONG ;VIS;20020117;Word: 70;

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 17, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences five prelates from the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, on their "ad limina" visit:
- Bishop Emmanuel Le Phong Thuan of Can Tho.
- Bishop Pierre Tran Thanh Chung of Kontum.
- Bishop Francois Xavier Nguyen Van Sang of Thai Binh.
- Bishop Joseph Nguyen Van Yen of Phat Diem.
- Bishop Joseph Nguyen Quang Tuyen of Bac Ninh.

AL;...;...;...;VIS;20020117;Word: 70;

CARDINAL KASPER TO CLOSE WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

VATICAN CITY, JAN 17, 2002 (VIS) - At 6 p.m. on January 25, Cardinal Walter Kasper is due to preside at the celebration of Vespers in the Basilica of St. Paul's Outside-the-Walls, thus bringing to a close the "Week of Prayer for Christian Unity" of 2002.

The cardinal, who is president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, will be accompanied by representatives from other Churches and ecclesial communities. "The diocesan community of Rome," reads a communique on the subject made public today, "is also invited to participate in order to invoke the Lord for the unity of all Christians."

...;PRAYER CHRISTIAN UNITY;...;KASPER;VIS;20020117;Word: 110;

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 16, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father:

- Erected the ecclesiastical province of Feira de Santana (area 16,878, population 1,125,151, Catholics 979,906, priests 65, permanent deacons 5, religious 149), Brazil, elevating the diocese of Feira de Santana to the rank of metropolitan church and assigning to it as suffragans the dioceses of: Barra, Barreiras, Bonfim, Irece, Juazeiro, Paulo Afonso and Ruy Barbosa. He appointed Bishop Itamar Vian O.F.M. Cap. of Feira de Santana as the first metropolitan archbishop of the new ecclesiastical province. The archbishop-elect was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in 1940, ordained a priest in 1968 and consecrated bishop in 1983.

- Erected the ecclesiastical province of Vitoria da Conquista (area 24,709, population 750,000, Catholics 600,000, priests 26, permanent deacons 2, religious 72), Brazil, elevating the diocese of Vitoria da Conquista to the rank of metropolitan church and assigning to it as suffragans the dioceses of: Bom Jesus da Lapa, Caetite, Jequie and Livramento de Nossa Senhora. He appointed Bishop Geraldo Lyrio Rocha of Colatina, Brazil, as the first metropolitan archbishop of the new ecclesiastical province. The archbishop-elect was born in Fundao, Brazil, in 1942, ordained a priest in 1967 and consecrated bishop in 1984.

- Appointed Fr. Alessio Saccardo S.J., director of the St. Francis of Sales college in the archdiocese of Teresina, as bishop of Ponta de Pedras (area 14,283, population 106,504, Catholics 97,700, priests 11, religious 17), Brazil. The bishop-elect was born in Marano Vicentino, Italy, in 1940, and ordained a priest in 1970. He succeeds Bishop Angelo Maria Rivato S.J., whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same diocese the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.

- Accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the archdiocese of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, presented by Auxiliary Bishop John Mendes, upon having reached the age limit.

ECE; NER; RE;...;...;...;VIS;20020116;Word: 290;

GENERAL AUDIENCE: INVOKE THE LORD WITH CONFIDENCE

VATICAN CITY, JAN 16, 2002 (VIS) - In today's general audience, which was held in the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father spoke on Psalm 41 which contains the image of the deer longing for cooling streams to quench its thirst. This, he said, symbolizes: "the person in prayer who tends with all his being, body and soul, towards the Lord Who is felt to be distant yet, at the same time, necessary."

"The opening scene of the Psalm is an expression of the profound nostalgia generated by a past rendered joyful by wonderful liturgical celebrations that are now unattainable. ... The festive prayer of the past, raised to the Lord during worship in the Temple, is substituted by tears, lamentation and imploration."

Alas, the Pope went on, "the Psalmist is now far from Zion." He is in Galilee near the cataracts of the Jordan River. "However, these waters do not quench the thirst as do those of Zion. In the eyes of the psalmist they are similar to the turbulent waters of the flood that destroy all before them. He feels them overwhelm him like a raging torrent that annihilates life."

John Paul II explained that this deluge symbolizes "the corrupt, the enemy, perhaps even the pagans who live in the remote region where the faithful Psalmist has been relegated. They despise the just man and deride his faith, asking him ironically 'where is your God?' While he raises the anguished question to the Lord: 'Why have you forgotten me?' ... Faced by this tormented soul, can God remain silent? Of course not!" The following Psalm, number 42, contains "a faithful invocation to God: 'Then I will go to the altar of God, to God my exceeding joy'."

AG;PSALM 41;...;...;VIS;20020116;Word: 290;

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 15, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences nine prelates from the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, on their "ad limina" visit:
- Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Man of Thanh-Pho Ho Chi Minh, accompanied by his auxiliary, Bishop Joseph Vu Duy Thong.
- Bishop Nicolas Huynh Van Nghi of Phan Thiet, accompanied by his coadjutor, Bishop Paul Nguyen Thanh Hoan.
- Bishop Paul Nguyen Van Hoa of Nha Trang, accompanied by his coadjutor, Bishop Pierre Nguyen Van Nho.
- Bishop Barthelemy Nguyen Son Lam P.S.S., of Thanh Hoa.
- Bishop Jean-Baptiste Bui Tuan of Long Xuyen, accompanied by his coadjutor, Bishop Joseph Tran Xuan Tieu.

AL;...;...;...;VIS;20020115;Word: 110;

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 15, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father:

- Accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the diocese of Regensburg, Federal Republic of Germany, presented by Bishop Manfred Muller, upon having reached the age limit.

- Appointed Bishop Peter Louis Caku, auxiliary of Kengtung (area 45,856, population 971,896, Catholics 54,326, priests 33, religious 113), Myanmar, as bishop of the same diocese. He succeeds Bishop Abraham Than whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same diocese the Holy Father accepted, in conformity with Canon 401, para. 2, of the Code of Canon Law.

- Appointed Bishop Mario Joseph Conti of Aberdeen, Scotland, as metropolitan archbishop of Glasgow (area 1,165, population 900,000, Catholics 223,534, priests 245, religious 312), Scotland. The archbishop-elect was born in Elgin, Scotland, in 1934, ordained a priest in 1958 and consecrated bishop in 1977.

- Appointed Fr. Francis Daw Tang, pastor at Kamaing, Myanmar, as auxiliary of Myitkyina (area 78,000, population 1,600,000, Catholics 93,000, priests 41, religious 106), Myanmar. The bishop-elect was born in Maw Gun, Myanmar, in 1946 and ordained a priest in 1979.

RE; NER; NEA;...;...;...;VIS;20020115;Word: 160;

PARENTS COLLABORATE IN THEIR CHILDREN'S DIVINE PATERNITY

VATICAN CITY, JAN 13, 2002 (VIS) - In the Sistine Chapel at 10 a.m. today, Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Pope presided at a Eucharistic celebration during which he administered the Sacrament of Baptism to 20 newborns from Italy, France, Spain and the U.S.A.

In his homily the Pope said, addressing particularly the parents of the children, "the grace of Christ will transform their existence from mortal to immortal, freeing it from original sin. Give thanks to the Lord for the gift of their birth and of their spiritual rebirth today."

"These children," he continued, "today receive Baptism on the basis of your faith, which I will shortly ask you to profess. How much love, how much responsibility lies in the gesture you will perform in your children' name!"

"Yet, will they be able to open themselves to faith if they do not receive a worthy testimony thereof from the adults around them? These children need, above all, you, dear parents. They also need you, dear godparents, that they may learn to know the true God Who is merciful love. ... They will understand that God is faithfulness if they can recognize the reflection - though limited and fallible - of that faithfulness, above all, in your loving presence."

John Paul II concluded by emphasizing "parents' great responsibility of cooperating in the spiritual growth of their children. ... If your mission as parents 'according to the flesh' is great, how much more is that of collaborating in the divine paternity, offering your contribution to forming in these creatures the very image of Jesus, the perfect Man."

HML;BAPTISM CHILDREN;...;SISTINE CHAPEL;VIS;20020114;Word: 280;

JOHN PAUL II: TRANSFIGURE EVERYDAY LIFE

VATICAN CITY, JAN 12, 2002 (VIS) - This morning in the Paul VI Hall, the Pope received in audience 5,000 participants in the international congress held in Rome to mark the centenary of the birth of Blessed Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer, the founder of Opus Dei.

The Holy Father recalled that during the congress, which was held from January 8 to 11, consideration was given to "the greatness of everyday life as a path to sanctity." He affirmed that, from the beginning of his ministry, Blessed Escriva preached that "all the baptized are called to the fullness of charity, and that the most immediate way to reach this common goal lies in the normality of daily life."

"For all baptized men and women who wish to follow Christ faithfully," he continued, "the factory, the office, the library, the laboratory, the workshop, the home can all be transformed into places for meeting the Lord. ... For us too, daily life ... can acquire the magnitude of a supernatural dimension and, in this way, become transfigured."

John Paul II emphasized that by "sanctifying their work while respecting objective moral norms, the lay faithful make an effective contribution to building a society more worthy of man. ... Thus, they cooperate in molding a human race more attentive to the needs of individuals and of the common good."

He went on: "Following the in footsteps of your founder, continue your mission with zeal and faithfulness. In the daily struggle, show that Christ's love can shape the curve of existence, enabling the ideal of 'unity of life' to be attained; the ideal that, as I reiterated in the Post-synodal Apostolic Exhortation 'Christifideles laici,' is fundamental in the commitment to evangelization in contemporary society.

"Prayer, work and the apostolate, as you learned from Blessed Josemaria, come together and unite if they are lived in this spirit. He always encouraged you to 'love the world passionately,' adding, though, an important clarification: 'Be men and women of the world, but do not be worldly men and women.' In this way, you will avoid the danger of being conditioned by a worldly mentality that conceives spiritual commitment as something that can be relegated to the private sphere and, consequently, irrelevant to public life."

"The earth," he concluded, "as your founder recalls, is a path to heaven and the existence of each believer, each with their own burdens and limitations, must become a true temple wherein dwells the Son of God made man."

AC;...;...;CONGRESS CENTENARY BALAGUER;VIS;20020114;Word: 420;

BUILD A UNITED AND PEACEFUL SOCIETY

VATICAN CITY, JAN 14, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, John Paul II received representatives from the regional administration of Lazio, Italy, with their president, Francesco Storace; from the town hall of Rome, accompanied by the mayor, Walter Veltroni, and from the provincial administration of Rome accompanied by their president Silvano Moffa, for the traditional exchange of New Year greetings.

In his address, the Pope spoke of the need to "continue tirelessly in efforts to build a united and peaceful society. ... Responsible attention to the needs of the less fortunate, a more just division of resources and integration between different cultures are the necessary premises for a truly human future."

After mentioning legislative measures approved last year that favor the family based on matrimony, he said: "For example, one particularly urgent need is to help young couples, enabling them to face matrimony with serenity and to assume their responsibilities in educating their children."

In the city of Rome, he said, as well as in the province and in the region, many people live "in conditions of partial or total poverty and marginalization, ... a large percentage of them immigrants. ... Whether those involved are the homeless; elderly people living alone; children or families in hardship; immigrants; the unemployed; prisoners; the terminally ill or other categories in difficulty, their existence should never be considered useless."
The Holy Father went on to refer to health-care, particularly for the less well off. He expressed the desire that with the cooperation of institutions involved in this field, including Catholic institutions, "it may become possible to give people an efficient health service, one respectful of individual dignity. I am certain that the recently-stipulated agreement concerning religious assistance in hospitals and nursing homes will contribute to meeting a real need of patients in those places."

AC;...;...;REPRESENTATIVES ROME; LAZIO;VIS;20020114;Word: 310;

POPE VISITS NATIVITY SCENE OF ROMAN STREET CLEANERS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 13, 2002 (VIS) - This afternoon John Paul II visited, as he does every year, the nativity scene built by the street cleaners of Rome. The Pope was greeted by the mayor of Rome and the personnel of the organization whose job it is to clean the streets of the capital.

The Holy Father expressed the wish that 2002 "may be a year of serenity and peace. ... Each and every individual must construct peace in their own environment. May believers and all people of good will welcome the announcement of peace proclaimed by the angels over the manger in Bethlehem. That call also sounds out for us today as we pause before the nativity scene that, with sincere faith, you have been building each year for thirty years now. May the Lord, Prince of peace, be your daily support; turn to Him with faith. His love will give new meaning to all your activities and aspirations."

JPII-VISIT;NATIVITY STREET CLEANERS;...;...;VIS;20020114;Word: 170;

ANGELUS: BAPTISM, CHRIST'S FIRST PUBLIC MANIFESTATION

VATICAN CITY, JAN 13, 2002 (VIS) - At midday today, following Mass and the Baptism of a group of children in the Sistine Chapel, John Paul II appeared at the window of his study in order to pray the angelus with pilgrims gathered below in St. Peter's Square.

"This year too," the Pope began, "I have had the joy of baptizing a number of children on today's feast of the Baptism of the Lord. The Gospels place that event as the beginning of Jesus' public life. It is, indeed, the first manifestation of Jesus as the Son of God."

"The Lord thus showed Himself as 'the Christ,' consecrated by God in the Holy Spirit and sent by Him to announce the joyful message of salvation to the poor. The aim of His mission is to baptize men and women in the Holy Spirit, in other words, to communicate to them the 'fire' of divine life. This will be fully accomplished with His death and resurrection, a mystery in which those who receive the Sacrament of Baptism come to participate."

The Holy Father also recalled that during this period a preparatory meeting is taking place in Toronto, Canada, for the 17th World Youth Day. "For this reason," he said after having greeted the organizers of that event, "my thoughts are particularly directed to you, dear young people, who are already ideally 'on the way' to Toronto. ... I hope to see you once again in great numbers. Abandon all fear and uncertainty: remember that you must be 'morning sentinels,' ever ready to announce the advent of the new day that is the risen Christ."

ANG;BAPTISM; WORLD YOUTH DAY;...;...;VIS;20020114;Word: 280;

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 14, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- Two prelates from the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, on their "ad limina" visit:
- Cardinal Paul Joseph Pham Dinh Tung, archbishop of Ha Noi.
- Archbishop Etienne Nguyen Nhu The of Hue.
- Fr. Jozef Daniel Pravda S.D.B., superior of the "sui iuris" mission of Baku, Azerbaijan.

On Saturday, January 12, he received in separate audiences:

- Bishop Reinhard Lettmann of Munster, Federal Republic of Germany.
- Msgr. James Patrick Green, interim charge d'affaires at the apostolic nunciature in the Republic of China.
- Cardinal Agostino Cacciavillan, president of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See, accompanied by Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli, secretary of the Administration, and Msgr. Carlo Liberati and Giorgio Stoppa, delegates of the same organization.
- Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops.

AL; AP;...;...;...;VIS;20020114;Word: 140;

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 14, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed Archbishop Javier Lozano Barragan, president of the Pontifical Council for Health Care Ministry, as his special envoy to the Tenth World Day of the Sick, to be held at Vailankanni, India, on February 11, 2002.

On Saturday, January 12, it was made public that he appointed:

- Archbishop Giovanni d'Aniello as apostolic nuncio in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- Fr. Klemens Stock S.J., pro-dean of the faculty for ancient oriental studies at the Pontifical Biblical Institute, as secretary of the Pontifical Biblical Commission.
- As members of the Pontifical Committee for Historical Sciences: Msgr. Guillermo Duran and Agostino Borromeo.
- As members of the Pontifical Committee for International Eucharistic Congresses: Archbishop Dominik Hrusovsky. Archbishop-bishops: Patabendige Don Albert Malcolm Ranjith, emeritus of Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, assistant secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples; Stephen Fumio Hamao, emeritus of Yokohama, Japan, president of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant Peoples; Javier Lozano Barragan of Zacatecas, Mexico, president of the Pontifical Council for Health Care Ministry, and Bishop Marc Ouellet, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity.

NA; NN;...;...;...;VIS;20020114;Word: 200;

OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, JAN 11, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father gave his assent to the following provisions made by the Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Church in accordance with their canons:

- The erection of the archiepiscopal exarchate of Donets'k-Kharkiv, Ukraine, and the election of Fr. Stepan Meniok C.SS.R., superior of the monastery of St. Alfonso of Lviv, Ukraine, as exarch of the new exarchate. The exarch-elect was born in Nakonechne, Ukraine, in 1949 and ordained a priest in 1981.

- The election of Frs. Ihor Vozniak C.SS.R., master of novices for the Lviv province of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, and Hlib Lonchyn M.S.U., collaborator at the apostolic nunciature in Kiev, Ukraine, as auxiliaries of Lviv of the Ukrainians (area 10,995, population 1,783,400, Catholics 857,053, priests 285, permanent deacons 2, religious 495). Bishop-elect Vozniak was born in Lypytsi, Ukraine, in 1952 and ordained a priest in 1980. Bishop-elect Lonchyn was born in Steubenville, U.S.A., in 1954 and ordained a priest in 1977.

The Holy Father appointed Fr. James Fitzgerald of the clergy of Joliet in Illinois (area 10,920, population 1,494,978, Catholics 571,742, priests 285, permanent deacons 152, religious 889), U.S.A., pastor of the parish of St. Mary, as auxiliary of the same diocese. The bishop-elect was born in Chicago, U.S.A., in 1938 and ordained a priest in 1964.

ECE; NER; NEA;...;...;...;VIS;20020111;Word: 220;

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 11, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- Archbishop Domenico De Luca, apostolic nuncio in Morocco.
- Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio, apostolic nuncio in Rwanda.
- Bishop Tommaso Valentinetti of Termoli-Larino, Italy, accompanied by an entourage.

This evening he is scheduled to receive Archbishop Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B., emeritus of Vercelli, Italy, and secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

AP;...;...;...;VIS;20020111;Word: 70;

ARCHBISHOP FOLEY: MEETING ON NEW EVANGELIZATION IN AMERICA

VATICAN CITY, JAN 11, 2002 (VIS) - Archbishop John P. Foley, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, is presently participating in a meeting on new evangelization in America. The meeting is taking place today and tomorrow in Miami, U.S.A.

The president of the pontifical council will address the gathering at lunchtime today in Miami's Radisson Hotel, and later deliver the homily during a Eucharistic celebration. Tomorrow, January 12, he is scheduled to make another speech.

...;NEW EVANGELIZATION;...;U.S.A.; FOLEY;VIS;20020111;Word: 90;

POLISH AGRICULTURAL ACADEMY CONFERS DOCTORATE ON POPE

VATICAN CITY, JAN 11, 2002 (VIS) - This morning, the Holy Father received in audience teachers and students from the academy of agricultural sciences of Warsaw, Poland, who conferred upon him a doctorate "honoris causa."

The Pope affirmed that the academy has "a long and rich tradition." There, he said, "distinguished scholars and politicians, as well as heroes of the struggle for independence, were formed and taught."

"The economic crisis in agriculture," he said, "also has an effect on national culture. Indeed, if many capable young people from rural areas cannot, for material reasons, continue their studies in high school and university, then spiritual impoverishment will undoubtedly result, not only for the countryside of Poland, but for all of society."

After emphasizing that "the educational activity of the academy includes over 50 specialized subjects," he underlined the need not to forget "the roots, the tradition, that require each member of the academy's community to be attentive to the development of the countryside and to engender love for the land of Poland, our nurturing mother."

The Pope concluded by encouraging teachers and students of the academy to offer "to all the inhabitants of cities and villages, a testimony of the love and respect due to Polish land and to those who, with the sweat of their brows, till that land. Do as much as you are able in order that the Polish countryside may enter with dignity, material well-being and spiritual wealth into the structure of a united Europe."

AC;...;...;POLISH AGRICULTURAL ACADEMY;VIS;20020111;Word: 260;

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, JAN 10, 2002 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in audience Cardinal Camillo Ruini, his vicar general for the diocese of Rome and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference.

AP;...;...;... ;VIS;20020110;Word: 30;