Vatican City, Jan 15, 2009 / 08:56 am
Members of the Vatican’s security force met with Pope Benedict and heard him offer encouragement not to lose heart in the face of the many threatening clouds gathering on the horizon. Christ is the true hope of Christians and only he can build a world of love and justice, he said.
The Thursday meeting between the Pope and members of the General Inspectorate for Public Security for the Vatican was held in keeping with a tradition that takes place each January.
In his remarks the Pope referred to the sacrifices their activities involve, sacrifices that also affect their families "because of the shift-work required in order to maintain constant watch over the area around St. Peter's Square and the Vatican."
Saying that the new year brings with it many expectations and hopes, the Holy Father also alluded to the numerous conflicts around the world.