ADDRESS OF THE HOLY FATHER JOHN PAUL II 
TO THE STAFF OF THE PAPAL VILLAS
BEFORE LEAVING CASTEL GANDOLFO FOR ROME

Friday, 1 September 2000

Dear Friends,

Before leaving Castel Gandolfo and returning to the Vatican - this year somewhat earlier than usual - I would also like, as always, to say goodbye to you who look after this summer residence.
As I thank Dr Saverio Petrillo for his courteous words on behalf of you all, I express my gratitude to each of you for your valuable service and especially for the affection and devotion with which you carry it out.

For my part, I assure you that you are in my prayers, with a special remembrance for the children, for the suffering and for your families' needs.

In Rome many important events for the Great Jubilee await me. I also rely on your spiritual support and hope that you yourselves will receive abundant fruits from the last part of the Jubilee Year.

With an affectionate "goodbye for now", I cordially bless you.

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