Thursday, October, 16, to celebrate the frail Pope John Paul’s 25th anniversary as pontiff, amid growing concern about his physical ailments and calls for his resignation.
The event came as a new poll conducted by the American network ABC showed that "about half of Catholics surveyed" say the 83- year old should resign for health reasons.
However nine out of ten Catholics questioned praised Pope John Paul II for "preserving the church’s tradition." Yet 3 out of 4 Catholics participating in the ABC News poll said the Pope should "do more to combat sex abuse by priests", a clear reference to recent scandals in the United States.
Apparently reacting to growing criticism within his church, the pope issued a new document addressing, among other things, immoral conduct by clerics.
The pontiff also condemned religious fundamentalism, saying the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States had created serious uncertainty and fear, both for human civilization and the peaceful coexistence of nations, the Voice of America (VOA) pointed out.
TIRED
Pope John Paul II looked tired and only read part of his speech, slurring his words and leaving the rest to an aide. With difficulty he managed to give his blessing to those gathered, reporters observed.
But the Polish born pontiff managed to speak some words in his native language to Polish pilgrims, many of whom are believed to have prayed for him.
"I thank you from my heart for being here today and during all these 25 years. I am happy I can count on your spiritual support," the pontiff said slowly, his hands shaking because of Parkinson’s Disease and other ailments.
SUFFERING
During the meeting, the Pope stressed he shares the "anxieties, suffering, hopes and joys of their ministry," of church leaders. He also spoke in Italian, inviting other pilgrims and residents of Rome to join him at Thursday’s anniversary Mass "to praise the Lord and thank him for this happy event."
The Pope, who is the third-longest serving and first ever Polish pontiff, was expected to oversee several events during the week’s celebrations, including the beatification of Mother Teresa and the creation of 31 new cardinals who will elect the next church leader after he dies.
Pope John Paul II was to preside over a special anniversary mass Thursday evening. It will take place at around the same time that the white smoke came out of the Vatican chimney 25 years ago, announcing that a new Pope had been chosen.
