To the Officers and men of HMS "Intrepid" and HMS "Fife", 7 February 1987

ADDRESS OF THE HOLY FATHER JOHN PAUL II
TO THE OFFICERS AND MEN
OF HMS "INTREPID" AND HMS "FIFE"

Saturday, 12 February 1987

Dear Friends,

It gives me great pleasure to meet you, the Officers and men of HMS "Intrepid" and HMS "Fife", which are now visiting some Italian ports. You have wished to make a visit to the Pope a part of your tour, and I am happy that this has been possible.

Your presence here gives me the opportunity to encourage you to see your naval service in the light of what it has to be today: the service of true peace. This must be the goal of all your efforts, especially in the present circumstances of international life and the present levels of the arms race.

Allow me to express the hope that you will always be guided by sentiments of true peace and brotherhood towards all; that you will acknowledge the human dignity and respect the human rights of every individual. Remember the golden rule: "Treat others the way you would have them treat you" (Cfr. Matth. 7,12). Then you will deserve the gift that Jesus Christ promised to men and women of peace: "Blessed are the peace-makers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Cfr. Matth. 5,9).

I will pray for you and your families, and I invoke upon you God’s abundant blessings. Tell your dear ones that the Pope sends his greetings to them and wishes them well. God be with you!