WORDS OF HIS HOLINESS PIUS XII
TO A GROUP OF SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS BELONGING TO «COMMITTEE INVESTIGATING INFORMATION PROGRAM»*

Tuesday, 7 October 1947

October 7 is a memorable day in the annals of Western Europe. On that day in the year 1571 the powers representing Christian civilization united to defeat the colossal threat from the East in the battle of Lepanto. It is a day of thanksgiving commemorated in the calendar of the Church, not only because the sanctuaries of Europe and their altars were thus saved from utter destruction, but also because the prayers ordered by the then Pope St. Pius V were universally given a large share in the victory.

The day reminds Us of the most effective assistance We, successor of that other Pius, can offer to the defenders of the rights of God and man. We want you to feel assured, honourable gentlemen of the Senate and the House, of Our constant prayers for you in the arduous and urgent tasks confronting you. A very large part of the world looks to you and your colleagues; while war-shattered nations grapple with a situation which cannot endure much longer without grave peril to everyone. Enlightenment from Eternal Wisdom, the Father of Mercies, is needed, when bold policies must he formed and resolutions carried through that are fraught with such far-reaching consequences. We shall pray that God may guide you in your deliberations and that He may always enrich you and your dear ones with His grace and blessing.

*Discorsi e Radiomessaggi di Sua Santità Pio XII, IX,
 Nono anno di Pontificato, 2 marzo 1947- 1° marzo 1948, p. 271
 Tipografia Poliglotta Vaticana.