wfn.org | Armenian, Greek Orthodox of Bethlehem Praised by Pope

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Fr. Raed Abusahlia
Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
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John Paul II Pleads for Peace in Holy Land

JERUSALEM, May 12, 2000-- Two Orthodox bodies that share responsibilities
with Latin Catholics for maintaining the historic Church of the Nativity in
Bethlehem, received thanks and praise today from Pope John Paul II.

All three groups, with historic ties throughout the Holy Land, maintain
Patriarchates in Jerusalem and were involved in the long seige of the ancient
church they believe stands over the birthplace of Jesus.

John Paul II expressed his gratitude to all those who helped end the basilica
siege in Bethlehem, pleading for a future of peace in the Holy Land.

In addition to the churches that share custody of the holy places here in
Jerusalem as well as in Bethlehem, a representative of the Anglican
Archbishop of Canterbury was involved in delicate international diplomacy
that led to the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Bethlehem.

"We have received with relief the news that the Basilica of the Nativity in
Bethlehem has been restored to God and the faithful," the Pope said at noon
today while greeting thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter4s Square,
according to the Zenit news agency.

After a traditional prayer, he gave thanks to "all those who have contributed
to the return of the holy place to its true religious identity."

He especiallyh praised "the communities of Franciscans, Greeks and Armenian
Orthodox who with notable sacrifices have been faithful custodians of the
sanctuary" throughout the 39-day siege.

He also encouraged "the people of Bethlehem and its surroundings ... to
re-embark on the path of faith and hope in God, who became so close to
mankind in your land."

The Pope sent his special envoy back to the Holy land to carry his greetings.
"His Eminence Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, is today the spokesman in Bethlehem
for my sentiments," the Holy Father said.

The cardinal presided at a solemn Mass in the Church of St. Catherine's, next
to the basilica, to mark the restoration of the historic church as a place
for worship.

"The universal message of Bethlehem is love, justice, reconciliation and
peace," John Paul II said. "On these foundations a future can be built,
respectful of the rights of the Israeli and Palestinian peoples, with mutual
confidence."

-end-