Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Fides Service) - As every Sunday, yesterday 16 January, Pope John Paul II appeared at his study window at midday to bless the crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square to pray the Angelus prayer with him. Before starting the prayer the Pope recalled two important Catholic church events: January 16 World Day for Migrants and Refugees and the Day for Christian Jewish Dialogue and also the start of the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 18-25 January, marked by all Christians
Quoting his Message for the World Day for Migrants and Refugees this year, the Pope recalled the importance of integration of peoples “which requires the proper balance between respect for their own identity and recognition of that of others”, and greeted migrants saying he hoped dialogue would “help increase understanding and friendship among the different cultures”.
With regard to the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, on the theme: "Christ, the one foundation of the Church " (cfr 1 Cor 3,1-23), the Pope encouraged Christians to take part in “ecumenical prayers and dialogue and to implore from God the gift of perfect unity among all the disciples of Christ”. Before giving his blessing the Pope entrusted the three events to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary: “through her maternal intercession may Mary help Christians to be one in mind and heart (cfr Acts 4,32) and all men and women to grow in solidarity in order to build a world of peace.” (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 17/1/2005; righe 18; parole 254)
