VATICAN CITY, JUN 26, 2005 (VIS) - Pope Benedict, in addressing tens of thousands of faithful in St. Peter's Square this morning as they gathered to pray the Angelus, spoke of the solemnity Wednesday of Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles and patrons of Rome, and said this feast "will be a significant occasion to underline the unity and catholicity of the Church."
"As has been done in the past," he noted, "there will be a special delegation present, sent by the ecumenical patriarch of Constantinople. I invite the faithful in Rome, who venerate the holy apostles Peter and Paul as their special patrons, pilgrims and the entire People of God to pray for heavenly protection on the Church and her pastors."
Then, noting that summer holidays are starting in the countries of the northern hemisphere, the Holy Father said: "While I hope that everyone can live with serenity a period of well-earned rest and relaxation, I would like to make an appeal for prudence for all those who are starting their trip to vacation spots. Every day, unfortunately, especially over the weekend, there are many highway accidents with so many lives tragically cut short, more than half of whom are young people.
"In recent years," added Benedict XVI, "much has been done to prevent such tragic accidents but more can and must be done, with everyone's contribution and commitment. Distraction and superficiality must be vanquished for, in a single moment, they can ruin one's own life and that of others. Life is precious and unique: it must always be respected and protected, even with a correct and prudent behaviour on the highway."
ANG/PRUDENCE:DRIVING:HOLIDAYS/... VIS 20050627 (280)
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