CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE WORLD OF SEAFARERS

VATICAN CITY, APR 29, 2002 (VIS) - John Paul II this morning welcomed the participants in the 15th Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant Peoples, who are meeting this year on the theme of the world of the sea and seafaring people.

In his talk, the Pope remarked that "this is a rather diversified social milieux where, even though there are numerous challenges, there is no lack of opportunity for evangelization. The increase of human mobility and the process of globalization have notably influenced the flow of migrants and tourists and the activity of seafaring people."

He spoke of the advantages and disadvantages of the phenomenon of globalization, noting that among the latter are "painful separations and complex and difficult situations. I am thinking for example, of seafaring people obliged to spend long periods away from their families, with stressful work rhythms. ... Nor can we forget those singular tourism offers of 'artificial paradises', where, for merely commercial reasons, populations and local cultures are exploited."

The Holy Father underscored the importance "of giving spiritual support to all those who make up the great family of seafarers. ... If there is the support of qualified pastoral agents, tourists can appreciate even more their vacations and cruises, because these will not just be solely pleasure trips." The Pope also stressed that "in every situation, it will be necessary to assure more just work conditions, conditions that respect individual and family needs. ... Adequate opportunities of cultivating one's own faith and religious practice must be proposed. That calls for imposing a pastoral ministry that is attentive to all the diverse conditions."

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