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ADDRESS OF THE  HOLY FATHER JOHN PAUL II 
TO THE PONTIFICAL MEXICAN COLLEGE

Monday 22 May 2000

 


I am grateful to the Rector for his words to me. I affectionately greet Cardinals Juan Sandoval and Norberto Rivera, the Archbishops and Bishops present and, in particular, the Rector and students of this college which welcomes us to this festive meeting today, the day after the canonization of 27 saints of your country, the beloved land of Mexico.

I feel very much at ease in your home, which I have visited twice. The first time was in December 1979 and the second in November 1992 for its 25th anniversary. Being with you makes me feel close to your Dioceses and places of origin and, at the same time, enables me to relive the unforgettable pastoral visits I have made to your beloved country.

I would like to thank the superiors for their work of guidance and spiritual direction for the student priests, as well as the women religious, the Sisters of the Poor, Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, who, together with the lay staff, silently make it possible for this priestly community to live as a family where a sound and happy climate of brotherhood prevails.

I hope that this college will continue to foster a suitable atmosphere for furthering and broadening your academic and spiritual formation, so necessary for the priestly ministry, which is the primary reason for your stay here.

May Our Lady of Guadalupe, Queen of your beloved nation and Mother of all Mexicans, intercede for you with her divine Son and always accompany you with her caring presence and motherly tenderness.

© Copyright 2000 - Libreria Editrice Vaticana

                                     



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