At the Cathedral of Kottayam dedicated to Christ the King, John Paul II, 8 February 1986

APOSTOLIC PILGRIMAGE TO INDIA

ADDRESS OF JOHN PAUL II
DURING THE VISIT
TO THE CATHEDRAL OF KOTTAYAM

Vijayapuram (India)
Saturday, 8 February 1986

Dear Bishop Kunnacherry,
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ.

It is a great pleasure for me to visit the Cathedral of Kottayam dedicated to Christ the King. The name of this church calls to mind the time, just before his death on the Cross, when Jesus admitted his own kingship. He said to Pilate: "Yes, I am a king. I was born for this, I came into the world for this: to bear witness to the truth; and all who are on the side of truth listen to my voice" .

"To bear witness to the truth": this is why Jesus came into the world, and in this way he fulfilled his role as King. And we show our love for him when we listen to his voice and live according to the truth. This was the way to holiness of Blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara and Blessed Alphonsa. May we follow their example. By living in truth and love, may we always give praise and glory to God – the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.