Dear Friends from Australia,

You expressed a wish to visit the Vatican and to see the Pope, and I am happy that it has been possible to arrange this meeting with you, the representatives of Sacred Heart Regional Girls’ College in Melbourne.

Your visit to the tomb of Saint Peter is inspired by much more than the mere curiosity of the tourist. Your presence here has the deeper significance of manifesting your faith in Christ and in his Church.

I pray that when you return to Australia you will take back with you, not only precious memories of the places you have been to, but above all a deeper appreciation of the Christian heritage that is yours. I pray too that you will feel encouraged to bear concrete testimony in your daily lives to your belief in Jesus Christ.

You are rightly proud of your School’s record in supporting the Pontifical Mission Aid Societies. May you continue to serve the Church in this important way, extending your love to the brothers and sisters who benefit from your generous initiatives.

As you can imagine, I very much look forward to visiting Australia in November. I ask you to pray for the pastoral success of that part of my apostolic ministry as Successor of Saint Peter.

Through you I send warm greetings to your families, and to all the staff and students of Sacred Heart College. May Almighty God protect and bless you.

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