Euro Should Promote Prosperity and Solidarity, Pope Says

At the end of Mass for the World Day of Peace, at St. Peter´s Basilica, John Paul II wished "peace and prosperity to the countries of the European Union, which today, with the single currency, attain a historic goal."

Following the recitation of the Angelus, the Holy Father told the pilgrims in St. Peter´s Square that he hoped the euro would foster "the full development of the citizens of the different countries. May justice and solidarity grow throughout Europe for the benefit of the whole human family!"

Beginning today, the euro is the currency of the more than 300 million inhabitants of the European member states.