VATICAN CITY, APRIL 3, 2011 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI today affirmed that his predecessor was in his prayers Saturday, the sixth anniversary of the Polish Pontiff’s death.
The Pope referred to Venerable John Paul II’s death April 2, 2005, during his traditional address after praying the midday Angelus.
«Because of his upcoming beatification, I did not celebrate the traditional Mass of suffrage for him, but I recalled him affectionately in prayer, as I think all of you did,» Benedict XVI said.
John Paul II will be beatified May 1.
Benedict XVI noted the approaching date: «While through the Lenten journey we prepare for the feast of Easter, we also draw near with joy to the day in which we will be able to venerate this great Pontiff and witness of Christ as Blessed, and entrust ourselves still more to his intercession.»
