Greeting to the participants in the congress “Penance and Reconciliation” at the Sunday Angelus – February 13, 1983

St. John Paul II

St. Peter’s Square, February 13, 1983

After having recited the “Angelus” of Sunday, the Holy Father addressed the following words to some groups specifically and said:

“I want to extend a cordial greeting to the large group here present who have participated these days in Rome in the congress on ‘Penance and Reconciliation’, sponsored by the Neocatechumenal Communities. I wish to express once again, my dearest brothers and sisters, my satisfaction for this congress of yours, which has brought together nearly 60 bishops and 2,000 pastors and priests, from the five continents, to reflect on the theme of the next Synod of Bishops. In the meeting I had with you last Thursday, I was able to appreciate once again the enthusiasm that distinguishes you. Continue with tireless and ever renewed generosity in your commitment to the apostolate and Christian witness, especially in the field of catechesis, where you have produced so many good fruits in these years. May my Apostolic Blessing accompany you and all the members of the Neocatechumenal Communities of the world.”