Following a Mass where he beatified seven people, the Pontiff addressed some 30,000 pilgrims in St. Peter´s Square just before praying the midday Angelus. He recalled the dead in the «air disaster that took place three days ago in the Black Sea.»
«I pray that the Lord will give them eternal rest and console all those who weep over their tragic loss,» John Paul II told the faithful.
Speaking in English, the Pope reminded the faithful of his request that they pray the rosary daily for peace in the world and for an end to terrorist attacks.