Departure From Brazzaville (5 May 1980)

On Monday, 5 May 1980, the Holy Father gave parting words on his departure from Brazzaville.

Dear Congolese,

Unfortunately, it is time to leave you. I must also go to other regions where they are expecting my arrival, and continue this pastoral visit which went so well with you. You were happy to see me. I can tell you that my joy was even greater. I would have liked to shake all your hands, to bless you all, to have for everyone, especially for children, for the sick, for the poor, a word of comfort and encouragement. We should have stayed too long, and I have no right to abuse your hospitality, even if you offered it with a good heart.

This hospitality, I also owe it, and in particular, to your President and to all those in charge of the State. You would like me to tell them, in front of you, how grateful I am to them.

And you will allow me to present to them, since they have the heavy responsibility of guiding the country, my very sincere wishes for its future, in justice, peace and prosperity for all.

A fervent thank you again to you, my brother bishops and priests, and to all Congolese Catholics.

I have seen your faith, your courage, your apostolic zeal. I heard you sing your love for Christ and his mother, the Most Holy Virgin Mary. I saw you pray, and I prayed with you and for you. We remember together the deceased pastors of these dioceses, whose ministry remains an example for all. In particular, we prayed together at the tomb of the late Cardinal Biayenda, faithful pastor and great servant of his country. Continue, always progress on the path that leads to God. I leave you today a little of myself and I take with me all your generosity, your ardor, and the proofs of your deep attachment to the Church.

Farewell, Congolese land! May you bear fruit that remains, and give the Church and the world the witness of your vitality!

© Copyright 1980 - Libreria Editrice Vaticana

 
Copyright © Dicastero per la Comunicazione - Libreria Editrice Vaticana