BENEDICT XVI highlights the participation of a delegation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople.
Vatican City (AsiaNews) The upcoming celebration of the "feast" of the Catholic Church of the apostles Saints Peter and Paul "who with their blood sealed the proclamation of the Gospel in Rome" was among the themes touched upon by Benedict XVI this morning. Addressing 40,000 faithful gathered in St Peter's Square for the Angelus, he also had a paternal word of caution for car drivers; the number of cars on the streets always increases at the start of summer.
"On 29 June, I will preside over Holy Mass at 9.30 in the Vatican Basilica: this will be a significant occasion to highlight the unity and universality of the Church. As in the past, a special delegation sent by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople will attend the celebration. I invite the faithful of Rome, who revere Saints Peter and Paul as their special patrons, pilgrims and all the People of God to invoke heavenly protection on the Church and on its Pastors". Benedict XVI also mentioned the feast after the recital of the Marian prayer, when he gave greetings in different languages. 29 June promises to be a potentially delicate opportunity for the Pope to return to issues to him especially dear linked to ties with other Churches and Christian denominations.
He added: "At the end of June, which marks the start of the summer season for countries of the planet's northern hemisphere, many people start their holidays. While auguring to all some serene days of deserved rest and relaxation, I want to appeal for prudence among those who are on the road headed for their holiday homes. Every day, unfortunately, especially at the weekend, road accidents are reported, with the tragic loss of many human lives, and more than half of victims are young. In recent years, much has been done to prevent such traffic events, but more can and must be done with the input and commitment of all. There is a need to fight distraction and superficiality, which in an instant could ruin one's own future and that of others. Life is precious and unique: it must always be respected and protected, even through correct and careful behaviour on the streets."