.- Catholics in Chile and Argentina gathered together this past Saturday to express thanks for the Pope John Paul II's role in mediating a crisis between the two countries that could have led to war.
The theme for the gathering, which coincided with celebrations honoring John Paul II in his 25 years as Pope, was "Blest are you, messenger of life and peace," bringing Catholics together in the southern regions of Chile and Argentina.
Those participating in the event included the Apostolic Nuncios, Archbishops Aldo Cavalli and Adriano Bernardini, of Chile and Argentina respectively, Bishop Luis Infanti of Aysén, Bishop Pedro Ronchino of Rivadavia, and civil authorities of the Aysen region and of the Andean province of Chubut.
The act of thanksgiving took place Saturday evening at Our Lady Of Peace Chapel in Balmaceda and included special prayers for John Paul II on his anniversary and in gratitude for his important role in diffusing the crisis in 1978 between the two countries that could have led to war, which would have greatly impacted the families that live in the area. After the celebration of the Eucharist, participants celebrated with folkloric dance and music.
