VATICAN - At the Angelus prayer the Pope mentions Harvest Thanksgiving Sunday in Italy encouraging those present to “share resources with those in need”

Vatican City (Fides Service) - In a brief address at midday on Sunday 14 November from his window overlooking St Peter’s Square, Pope John Paul II recalled that it was Harvest Thanksgiving Sunday in Italy when local Churches all over the country thank God for the fruits of the earth. The Holy Father said he joined the ecclesial community and all who work in various areas of the agricultural sector in giving thanks to God. “For Christians the Eucharist is the fullest expression of thanksgiving. During every Mass we bless the Lord, God of the universe presenting him with the bread and wine ‘fruits of the earth and the work human hands’. To these simple elements Christ linked his sacrificial oblation. United with him believers are called to offer their lives and daily work to God.” Lastly the Pope invoked the intercession of Mary, Mother of Divine Providence to “teach us to be grateful to the Lord for what nature and human labour produce for our nourishment and make us ready to share our resources with those in need.” (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 15/11/2004 - Righe 14; Parole 204)