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                               VIS-Press releases

POPE RECALLS ITALIAN EARTHQUAKE OF 1980

VATICAN CITY, 17 NOV 2010 (VIS) - During his greetings to faithful at the end
of his general audience today, the Pope addressed a group of Italian pilgrims
from the region of Basilicata, who have come to Rome in the company of their
local bishops priests and civil authorities to commemorate the thirtieth
anniversary of the earthquake that devastated southern Italy in 1980.

"During that dramatic event", said the Holy Father, "the
wounds of which are
still deep and open in the minds and hearts of those dear peoples, much
generous aid came from many parts of Italy. At the local level, everyone
undertook to implement the necessary measures. In particular, I would like to
highlight the efforts made by the Church, which was able to offer, as well as
material aid, the light of hope of the risen Christ, at a time of distress and
darkness. My hope is that today's meeting, as well as the memory of the
paternal visit made at that time by Servant of God John Paul II, may revive in
Christian people the gift of faith, and the joy of sharing it in the great
family of the Church".
AG/VIS 20101117 (210)

SUMMARY

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