VATICAN CITY, FEB 27, 2005 (VIS) - Shortly after the Angelus prayer recited in St. Peter's Square yesterday by Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, substitute of the Secretariat of State, Pope John Paul appeared unannounced at the window of his hospital room, and waved to and blessed the crowd that had gathered at Gemelli Polyclinic. This was the first time in more than 26 years of pontificate that the Holy Father did not personally recite the Angelus.
As the Pope was ordered by his doctors not to talk for several days, Archbishop Sandri led the Marian prayer, read the Pope's customary Sunday reflections and, in the Pope's name, imparted the apostolic blessing. Photos taken by the Vatican's L'Osservatore Romano photographer were released that showed John Paul II, surrounded by doctors and several collaborators, as he followed the Angelus on television in his hospital suite.
"Once again, dear brothers and sisters," said the Pope's message, "I address you from Agostino Gemelli hospital. I thank you affectionately and I feel your spiritual closeness. I am thinking of all of you gathered in St. Peter's Square, both individuals and groups, and of those from around the world who have expressed interest in me. I ask you to continue to be with me, especially with your prayers.
"The penitential climate of Lent, which we are now living, helps us to better understand the value of suffering that in one way or another, touches all of us. It is in looking at Christ and following Him with patient trust that we are able to understand how every human form of pain has within it the divine promise of salvation and joy. I would like this message of comfort and hope to reach everyone, especially those who are going through difficult moments, those who suffer in body and spirit.
"To Mary, Mother of the Church, I renew my entrustment: 'Totus tuus'. May she help us in every moment of life to fulfill God's holy will. May my paternal blessing reach everyone."
ANG/SUFFERING/GEMELLI:SANDRI VIS 20050228 (350)
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