NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

      VATICAN (CWNews.com) -- Pope John Paul II today received the leadership of the Knights of Columbus as they made their traditional visit to Rome.

      The Holy Father voiced his gratitude to the members of the Knights of Columbus for their "support for the pastoral ministry of the Bishop of Rome," and their "profound sense of Catholic unity with Peter's successor." He also made special mention of their efforts to promote the pro-life cause in the United States.

      The Knights, numbering 1.6 million members, have contributed over $100 million annually to a variety of charity causes in recent years. Among their main projects have been renovations of St. Peter's Basilica, support for the Vatican mission at the United Nations, and contributions to the US bishops' pro-life activities.