VATICAN CITY, MAR 5, 2005 (VIS) - This evening thousands of students from Roman universities participated in a Marian prayer vigil, concluding the Third European Day for Universities on the theme "Intellectual and Scientific Research, a Way to Meet Christ." The event was presided by Cardinal Camillo Ruini, vicar general for the diocese of Rome.
During the celebration, there were satellite linkups with university students in Bari, Madrid, Zagreb, Berlin, Lisbon, Kiev, Bucharest, Tirana and London.
From his room in Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic, John Paul II spiritually joined the participants and sent them a message that was read by Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, substitute for General Affairs of the Secretariat of State.
"Europe," the Pope writes, "is ideally involved in this important moment of prayer and reflection, in preparation for the forthcoming World Youth Day, which will take place right in the heart of the continent, in Cologne."
Referring to the theme of the European Day, John Paul II writes: "There is no contradiction between faith and reason, as is also shown by the experience of the Magi who arrived in Bethlehem using both these dimensions of the human spirit: intelligence that scrutinizes the signs, faith that leads to adoration of the mystery."
"Dear young people," the Pope continues, "always be animated by a longing to discover the truth of your existence. May faith and reason be the two wings that bear you to Christ, the truth of God and the truth of the human being. In Him you will find peace and happiness. May Christ be the center of all your lives. This is my sincere desire, which I express to you all from the heart, accompanying it with an assurance of my prayers."
At the end of his message, the Holy Father wishes all the young people a "Happy Easter and a safe journey to Cologne."
After the meeting, a procession of university students accompanied the Cross to the church of St Agnes in Piazza Navona.
MESS/FAITH:REASON/RUINI VIS 20050307 (340)
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