EUROPE/RUSSIAN FEDERATION - Worshippers in Moscow’s Catholic cathedral shed tears as they pray for the Pope. Also at times like this the Pope shows the strength of his faith and sends us a message: "Be strong in your faith", Catholic Archbishop Kondrusiewicz tells Fides.

Friday, 4 March 2005

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Moscow (Fides Service) - “The faithful gathered for Sunday Mass at the Mother of God Cathedral on Sunday prayed for the health of the Pope with deep emotion. Many tears were shed and in the end I had to interrupt my homily” Catholic Archbishop Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz, of the Mother of God diocese in Moscow told Fides with regard to a special Mass which he presided and which was offered for Pope John Paul II in hospital. “The Mass for the Pope was broadcast on television and television staff and representatives of the press, present for the event, were deeply touched by the people’s emotion and their deep affection for the Holy. Since the Pope was admitted to hospital I have had many requests for interviews. This demonstrates that the Pope is respected and esteemed by everyone”.
“When the Pope was first admitted to hospital, and again after his small operation, I called on the whole diocese, parishes, communities, Catholic movements to pray for the Pope’s health and a speedy recovery. I urged the people to pray individually and in families and communities as well as at Mass”, said Archbishop Kondrusiewicz who said there is widespread interest and concern in Russia for the health of the Pope.
“Also at times like this the Pope shows the strength of his faith and sends us a message:”, the Archbishop told Fides, adding that he is also praying for the Pope. “In the evening in the chapel at my residence we have Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and I and the sisters who look after me, pray for the Holy Father’s intentions and for his health.”
Also in Moscow, Mexican Jesuit Father Vilches one of a community of 8 Jesuits from different countries (Ecuador, Kazakstan, Russia, Ukraine, Belgium), assured Fides they too are praying for the Pope. “We pray for the health of the Pope every day at Mass and during our community prayers. We follow the situation thanks to the Internet, as news of his improvement is released. We hope he will make a full and speedy recovery”. (MS) (Agenzia Fides, 4/03/2005 - righe 27, parole 386)