ADDRESS OF JOHN PAUL II
TO THE POLISH PILGRIMS FROM ZAKOPANE
AND FROM THE REGION OF PODHALE

Tuesday, 9 December 2003  

I cordially greet the welcome guests from Zakopane and the region of Podhale. I thank you who - as each year - come to the Pope "with Christmas carols", with mountain music, song and gifts. Besides your love and devotion you bring me beautiful Christmas trees that speak of Poland. I thank the Reverend Dean for the best wishes expressed in the name of all of you and I cordially exchange them.

In a few days we will see the light of the night of Bethlehem and will again hear the message of the angel:  "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord" (Lk 2: 10-11).

May this light and this message be always present in the hearts of all so that hope and joy overcome every fear. For this I pray and this I wish for you, Polish mountain people here present, and for your compatriots. May God be praised because in the Vatican's Clementine Hall, I was able to hear Polish Christmas carols.

God bless you!