God Bless You and the American People

by Pope Saint John Paul II

Descriptive Title

Message to President Bush

Description

For the inauguration of the Hon. George W. Bush as the 43rd President of the United States of America, the Holy Father sent the new Head of State a telegram expressing his good wishes and his prayers that the Lord would bless the American people. Here is the text of his message, which was written in English and dated January 20, 2001.

Larger Work

L'Osservatore Romano

Pages

1

Publisher & Date

Vatican, January 24, 2001

On the occasion of your inauguration as the 43rd President of the United States of America I send warm greetings and good wishes, together with the assurance of my prayers that almighty God will grant you wisdom and strength of purpose in the exercise of your high office. As the world faces the challenges of the new millennium, I pray that under your leadership the American people will discover in their rich religious and political heritage the spiritual values which will provide clear direction and a sound ethical foundation for building a society marked by authentic justice and freedom, with unfailing respect for the dignity and rights of each individual, especially the poor, the defenceless and those who have no voice. I likewise ask God, the Father of the nations, to guide your efforts to foster understanding, cooperation and peace among the peoples of the world. Upon you and your family, and upon the beloved American people I cordially invoke the Lord's abundant blessings.

IOANNES PAULUS PP. II

© L'Osservatore Romano, Editorial and Management Offices, Via del Pellegrino, 00120, Vatican City, Europe, Telephone 39/6/698.99.390.

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