Monday, October 09, 2006

Pope John Paul I: The Smile of God

Yesterday evening in the Vatican, Benedict XVI attended a screening of "Papa Luciani, il sorriso di Dio," a film on the life of Pope John Paul I produced by the Italian State broadcaster RAI and by the company Leone Cinematografica. The film was directed by Giorgio Capitani and stars Neri Marcore.

After the screening, the Pope pronounced a few words. "We have," he said, "reconsidered the kind and gentle figure of a Pontiff strong in the faith, firm in his principles but always ready to welcome with a smile. Faithful to tradition and open to renewal, Servant of God Albino Luciani, as priest, as bishop and as Pope was tireless in his pastoral activity, constantly encouraging clergy and laity to seek in the various fields of the apostolate, the one common ideal of sanctity.

"Master of truth and zealous catechist, with his customary engaging simplicity he reminded all believers of the duty and joy of evangelization, highlighting the beauty of Christian love, the only power capable of defeating violence and of building a more fraternal humanity."

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