Pope Consoled by Prayers from Around the Globe

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, May 19—Amid media speculation about his health and scandals besetting some American clerics, Pope John Paul II told a crowd in St. Peter's Square on Sunday that he is consoled in his ill-health by the prayers of Catholics from around the world.

The AP reported on the Mass May 19, the day after the Holy Father's 82nd birthday, noting that he “appeared almost exhausted during a two-hour ceremony to raise five religious workers to sainthood. His head trembled as he said prayers before Communion on the steps of St. Peter's Basilica, and his words during the Mass and while reading the homily were so slurred they were often unintelligible.” These symptoms of Parkinson's disease sometimes mask the fact that the Pope's intellect is still extremely active.

While prominent cardinals have speculated on the possibility of papal retirement in the case of a genuinely incapacitated pope, few expect John Paul to step down. This week, the AP reported, he starts a pilgrimage to Azerbaijan and Bulgaria.

Pope Still Seeks Peace for Holy Land and Places

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, May 17—Last week Pope John Paul II reflected on the recent siege of Bethlehem's Nativity basilica and called for international guarantees of the safety of Christian holy sites, the AP reported.

“I appeal yet again for the international community to take, without delay, the necessary measures to see that the specific statute (protecting) holy places is respected and assuring their true protection,” the Holy Father said.

The Holy See has always sought international involvement in the defense of the sacred sites associated with the life of Christ. As he welcomed the new ambassador from the kingdom of Jordan, a moderate Arab state that maintains good relations with Israel, thr Pope called once again on that state and the Palestinians to renew negotiations for peace.

Algerian Film Director Sends Birthday Best to Pope

FIDES News Service, May 19—Algerian film director Rachid Benhadi, raised a Muslim, sent Pope John Paul best wishes on his 82nd birthday, according to the missionary news service Fides.

“The Pope is a man of great lucidity, extraordinary charisma,” Benhadi said. “Every time he sets out on a journey it means more physical suffering, but what is most important is that his mind is as keen as ever. I sincerely wish the Pope long life and that he may carry on his work with serenity. I hope his health will give him less trouble and a bit of peace!”

Benhadi provided research to the Pontifical Council for Culture for an upcoming film on St. Augustine, the fourth-century bishop of Carthage.