VATICAN CITY, APRIL 1, 2002 (VIS) - John Paul II appeared at the window of his private study overlooking St. Peter's Square at midday to pray the Regina Coeli - the prayer that substitutes the Angelus during Easter time - with the faithful gathered there.
The Pope emphasized that today, "Monday of the Angel, we are reminded of the encounter of the celestial messenger with the women who go to the tomb. ... From the empty tomb this angelic announcement is spread around the world and reaches all the corners of the world; it is a message of hope for all."
He exclaimed: "How I would like the Easter announcement to strengthen the faith of all those who are baptized! How much I desire that peace, the gift of Christ Resurrected, reach all human hearts and once again give hope to those who are oppressed and who are suffering!"
The Holy Father concluded by asking the Virgin Mary, "silent witness of the death and resurrection of her son Jesus, help us to believe deeply in this mystery of salvation, which, when accepted with profound faith, can change our lives. May she help us to convey this mystery to those we meet with joy, as coherent and brave disciples of the Risen Lord."
After the Regina Coeli, John Paul II invited everyone to pray especially for the residents of Bethlehem, "the city where Jesus was born, which in these moments is going through difficult times and which finds itself in grave danger. We receive sad and worrisome news that has disturbed the atmosphere of Easter Sunday, which should be a holiday of peace, joy and life. The Pope, with great apprehension and sorrow, is close to those brothers and sisters of ours, as is the entire Church, which is praying and working in order to put at end to this painful Calvary as soon as possible."
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