Pope blesses large audience at Damascus mass
Syria-Vatican, Politics, 5/7/2001

A large mass was held in Damascus at the Abbasid's stadium. It was headed by Pope John Paul on Sunday morning.

On behalf of the Syrian President, the mass was attended by the minister of higher education Hassan Risheh.

Upon his arrival at the Stadium the Holy See toured the playground greeting tens of thousands of people crowded in it.

The Pope made a sermon calling upon all to continue exerting efforts with a view to building a fraternal and consolidated society capable of protecting the dignity of mankind and of restoring legitimate rights so that all live in peace and complete understanding.

His holiness addressed the Christians by saying:" The Church depend on you in giving your children the faith you inherited and in remaining united and open to all and in defending the principles of right and justice."

He extended gratitude to all Muslims who wanted to join to their Christian brethren in this occasion which coincides with the Martyrs day who offered their blessed souls in defense of the home. He also thanked President Bashar al-Assad's representative for attending the ceremony.

He was cordially greeted by a wave of applause by the audience, Muslims and Christians, who carried welcome posters and the national flags of Syria and the Vatican.

He accepted a number of gifts referring to Syria.

While some bands were reciting religious anthems, the Pope distributed the sacred communion to all participants in the mass. He, later extended deep thanks to all, wishing them good health and all success.

Previous Stories:
  Pope arrives in Damascus   (5/5/2001)
  Pope John Paul II in Damascus today   (5/5/2001)
  The Pope to hold a mass at the Damascus Abbasids' Stadium   (5/4/2001)

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