Lourdes, France, Aug 14, 2004 / 22:00 pm
At the conclusion of the solemn Mass on Sunday, during the Angelus prayer, Pope John Paul called the youth to become a source of hope to the world through a life of prayer and austerity.
“I greet in particular all the young people, who are so much at home in Lourdes and have placed themselves so generously at the service of their sick brothers and sisters as hospitaliers,” said the Pope.
“Dear young friends –he added:- these meetings have given me a great hope which I wish to share with you today. Let Mary be your teacher, and you will bring a fresh breath of optimism to the world, as you proclaim to all the ‘good news’ of Christ’s Kingdom.
The Pontiff recalled that Our Lady of Lourdes “called for penance and prayer.”