In response to the world's heightened awareness of terrorism since Sept. 11, Pope John Paul II is again turning to the rosary as one of the Church's greatest instruments for peace.

Speaking Sept. 20 to pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Holy Father said:  "Given the present international context, I appeal to all -- individuals, families and communities -- to pray the rosary for peace, if possible daily, so that the world will be preserved from the dreadful scourge of terrorism."

The Pope also reminded his listeners that October is the month when the Church venerates Mary as Queen of the Holy Rosary.

"The terrible tragedy of last Sept. 11 will be remembered as a dark day in the history of humanity," he said.  "In the face of this, the Church intends to be faithful to her prophetic charism and reminds all men of their duty to build a future of peace for the human family.

"Of course, peace is not separate from justice," the Pope said, "but the latter must always be carried out with mercy and love."

John Paul II added:  "Jews, Christians and Muslims adore the One God.  Therefore, the three religions have the vocation to unity and peace.  May God grant the faithful of the Church to be in the front line in the search for justice, in the rejection of violence, and in the commitment to be agents of peace.

"May the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede for the whole of humanity," he said, "so that hatred and death will never have the last word!"

SOURCE:  National Catholic REGISTER -- Vatican News; Oct. 7-13, 2001

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