To Bishops, Secular and Religious Clergy, Religious Women and Patients (5 March 1983)

On Saturday, 5 March 1983, the Holy Father visited the Panama Cathedral, where he spoke to Bishops, Clergy, Secular and Religious, Religious Women and a group of patients.

Dear brothers and sisters

During my visit to this Cathedral, the spiritual center of diocesan life, I wish to warmly greet my Brothers in the Episcopate present here, in particular the Pastor of this ecclesial community, D. Marcos Gregório McGrath, with my deep gratitude and that of the entire Church, for the expressions made this morning of devout reparation to the Eucharist. I also greet all the priests, men and women religious, to whom I have dedicated or will dedicate longer speeches at other moments of this apostolic journey.

I greet you in a special way, dear seminarians, urging you to make good use of these years of preparation for the priesthood. The Church in Panama needs to see your numbers increase more and more; Therefore, through you, I address young people of your age and condition, so that they think about the possibility of giving themselves to God and to others, in the priesthood and religious life. Be courageous and determined in your surrender to God! I want to say to families in Panama and throughout Central America: Be generous, letting one of your children dedicate his or her entire life to serving the Lord and your communities!

I want to greet with particular esteem you, the sick, present here in a small group, which however represents all your sick brothers in the country, both those in their homes and in hospitals. Know that the Pope prays a lot for all of you. Strive to accept with supernatural vision the pains and limitations that you suffer in your life, and that have so much value for the Church; Thus, united to the sufferings of Christ, you participate in his redemptive work in the world.

I cordially impart a special Apostolic Blessing to all of you, in particular to the elders gathered here.

Copyright © Dicastero per la Comunicazione - Libreria Editrice Vaticana