We are sincerely grateful to you all, for the greetings which
you express to Us by your presence here.
We thank the President, the Secretary, General and all the
members of the United Nations; the President of the United States of America and
the federal authorities; the Governor of the State of New York and the state
officials; the Mayor of the City of New York and municipal officials. Our
gratitude goes also to the Cardinal Archbishop of the City, and to his priests,
religious and faithful people. And We are grateful to all the citizens of this
great metropolis and of all the United States of America, for their enthusiastic
and affectionate welcome.
Our very brief visit has given Us a great honour; that of
proclaiming to the whole world, from the Headquarters of the United Nations,
Peace! We shall never forget this extraordinary hour. Nor can We bring it to a
more fitting conclusion than by expressing the wish that this central seat of
human relationships for the civil peace of the world may ever be conscious and
worthy of this high privilege.
To America, Our prayerful wishes for prosperity and peace, under
the rule of law, in concord with the other nations of the world; and Our
heartfelt blessings upon its people, their families, their government, their
homes and schools and churches, one Nation, under God, free and indivisible. God
bless America! God bless you all!
* * *
To the representatives of the Press, Radio, Television and
Cinema:
Gentlemen of the Press, Radio, Television and Cinema,
Our
crowded schedule did not permit Us the time to meet with you, but We cannot
depart without expressing a word of admiration and respect for your profession
and vocation. Communications have experienced a remarkable advance since our
first contact many years ago. As a result the world has become much smaller. Behind each one of you is a vast network working to bring the latest news to
everyone. Responsibility is in proportion to knowledge and you are in possession
of much weighty knowledge. You can lead men to be aware of the complex problems,
and you can encourage them to make their own personal contribution, without
which true peace and harmony cannot ever become a reality.
Your labours are often hidden and go unheralded, but be sure
that We appreciate them and value them highly. We are confident