VATICAN CITY, APRIL 10, 2011 (Zenit.org).- Here is a translation of the address given Saturday by Benedict XVI after the screening of a documentary film, «The Pilgrim Dressed in White,» about Pope John Paul II.
* * *
Eminences, Excellencies, Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I would like to offer a cordial greeting and a warm word of thanks too to the producers, to the makers of this documentary film on the Venerable Pope John Paul II. I am happy to have been able to view it here in the Vatican and to express a warm appreciation for the work that was done, joining in the acclaim that the Polish hierarchy and some of my co-workers have already expressed.
Because of the seriousness with which it was prepared, the quality of its making, this film belongs among the more valuable gifts to the public offered on the occasion of the upcoming beatification of my beloved predecessor.
There are now many audio-visual works that have the figure of John Paul II for their object, among which are various documentaries produced by television broadcasters. There are certain elements that distinguish this film, «The Pilgrim Dressed in White,» in this panorama, for example, the interviews with aides close [to John Paul II], the testimonies of famous people, the wealth of documentation. All of this has the aim of faithfully bringing out both the personality of the Pope and his untiring work during the period of his long pontificate.
I would like to highlight once again the two hinges of his life and of his ministry: prayer and missionary zeal. John Paul II was a great contemplative and a great apostle of Christ. God chose him for the See of Peter and he has led all of us in this pilgrimage and he continues to accompany us from heaven.
Thanks once more to all those who, in many ways, collaborated in the realization of this film that helps us to value the luminous witness of Pope John Paul II. With this sentiment of gratitude, I bless all of you and your loved ones from my heart.
[Translation by Joseph G. Trabbic]
