NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

    VATICAN (CWNews.com) -- At the conclusion of his public audience on September 1, Pope John Paul II noted the anniversary of the beginning of World War II, and offered some reflections on the Nazi invasion of Poland.

    Addressing his remarks especially to the Polish members of the audience, and speaking in his native tongue, the Holy Father said: "Today we recall with special gratitude the heroic defenders of our country, who shed their blood to save our land during that September campaign."

    The Pope's reflections-- which were published in the September 2 edition of L'Osservatore Romano-- characterized the anniversary as "a tragic day." He remarked that the arrival of war brought "a sad period, marked by the death and suffering of people and even entire nations." He asked his audience to pray for "the gift of peace"-- for Poland in particular, for Europe, and for the entire world.

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