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Pilgrims Mark First Anniversary of Pope John Paul's Death
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=119DD2C:3919ACA Vatican officials
say up to 10,000 people are visiting John Paul's tomb every day





Priests pray on the tomb of Pope John Paul II in St. Peter's Basilica
at the Vatican,  April 2, 2006Thousands of pilgrims are gathered in
Rome to pay tribute to the late Pope John Paul the Second, on the
first anniversary of his death. Many are visiting his tomb underneath
Saint Peter's Basilica. Pope Benedict recalled the last days of his
predecessor's life.

At the pope's Sunday meeting with pilgrims in Saint Peter's Square, a
larger crowd than normal had gathered, many waving the red-and-white
flags of the late Pope John Paul's native Poland.

As customary, Pope Benedict appeared at his study window at noon. He
addressed those gathered on the first anniversary of the death of his
predecessor.

He told the pilgrims that on April 2 last year, Pope John Paul was
living during these hours the last phase of his earthly pilgrimage, a
pilgrimage of faith, love and hope, which left a deep mark in the
history of the church and of humanity.

Pope Benedict recalled the last suffering moments and days of his
predecessor's life. He reminded the faithful that, last year, Pope
John Paul was only able to watch the Good Friday procession from his
private chapel, and that he was unable to deliver his Easter blessing
two days later. Pope Benedict said, "We will never forget that
blessing."

Pope Benedict said it was the most pained and moving blessing, which
left us with the extreme testimony of his will to complete his
ministry until the end.

Pope Benedict also said John Paul would be remembered for his first
address to the crowds, immediately after his election in 1978. He had
told them to open wide the doors of Christ.

That appeal, Pope Benedict said, embodied John Paul's entire 26-year
pontificate, especially during his many travels.

Thousands of pilgrims have gathered in Rome to mark this anniversary
and to visit the late pope's tomb. Vatican officials say up to 10,000
people are visiting John Paul's tomb every day.

In view of the crowds, the Rome city authorities have organized extra
assistance from volunteers who are handing out water bottles.

A cardinal will lead an evening prayer vigil Sunday in Saint Peter's
Square. Then, at the exact time of Pope John Paul's death (9:37pm),
Pope Benedict will again address the crowds.


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