ADDRESS OF THE HOLY FATHER
POPE JOHN PAUL II
TO A GROUP OF YOUNG PEOPLE FROM ETHIOPIA AT
THE CENTRE FOR ASSISTANCE IN "VIA ASTALLI"
 

Saturday, 31 December 1988

My dear Brothers and Sisters from Ethiopia,

As you gather to express gratitude to God for all the blessings of the past year, no doubt your thoughts and prayers turn to your families and friends in your native land. Perhaps this is also an occasion for you to reflect on the many events, both joyful and sorrowful, that have marked your journey to Rome and your stay here.

I join you in thanking God for his many blessings to you in the midst of difficulties and trials: for the kindnesses that have been extended to you by so many people, especially the Jesuit Fathers who have opened their home to you in a true spirit of Christian hospitality and solidarity.

I also pray with you for Ethiopia, for your loved ones and all the people of your country, that during the new year they may enjoy greater peace and well-being. May all people of good will work tirelessly for this goal. We make this prayer with full confidence in God’s love for your native land and all its citizens.

Upon all of you I invoke joy and peace in the newborn Saviour and I gladly impart to you my Apostolic Blessing.