Vatican City (AsiaNews) On the day of Epiphany, the Christian festival that commemorates the first manifestation of Christ to the pagan nations (represented by the Magi), John Paul II highlighted "the active role" children play "in the evangelisation of the world" and whose "prayers," said the Pontiff, "contribute to saving and improving the world".
Whilst praying "for the small victims of the seaquake in Asia", the Pope remembered "the children [. . .] victim of hunger and disease, war and terrorism, as well as those who disappear, abducted or exploited for vile purposes."
In recent days AsiaNews itself has warned of the danger that children who survived the tsunami might be ending up in the illegal adoption and sex trade.
The Pontiff called on everyone to "protect the little ones".
To the youth preparing for World Youth Day in Cologne, and to all the faithful, he said to worship Christ "with a child's heart".
Following the Angelus the Pope offered his best wishes of Holy Christmas to the Eastern Churches who are currently celebrating the event.
Here is what the Pope said in introducing the Marian prayer:
"We [. . .] have come to do him homage" (Mt 2:2). These words by the Magi, which we have heard today in the reading of the Gospel, are the theme of the upcoming World Youth Day that will take place in Cologne.
"I invite the youth of Germany and their contemporaries around the world to spiritually start the journey towards this important appointment of discovery to find in Christas the Magi didthe face of God.
"Epiphany is also Missionary Children Day.
"Children are the present and the future of the Church. They have an active role in the evangelisation of the world and with their prayers they contribute to saving and improving it.
"As I renew my prayers for the small victims of the seaquake in Asia, I cannot forget the children who are victim of hunger and disease, war and terrorism, as well as those who disappear, abducted or exploited for vile purposes.
"My thoughts and gratitude go to those who protect the little ones, especially the Pontifical Society of the Holy Childhood.
"[W]hoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it" (Mk 10:15). May Holiest Mary, who on this day introduced Christ to the nations, help us worship him with a child's heart."
Following the Angelus the Pope, together with some greetings, said:
"To our brothers and sisters of the Eastern Churches who are celebrating these days Holy Christmas I offer my warmest wishes of peace and joy in the Lord."