NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

      ROME, 18 (NE) In view of the jubilee celebrations of the year 2000, San Giovanni Rotondo sanctuary, where the relics of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina remain, is getting prepared to receive the millions of faithful that will arrive to this important place of pilgrimage. The most important task that is being carried out in this place is the construction of a new basilica that will be able to receive about ten thousand people. The construction, that should be concluded towards the end of the year, has been carried out with the support of the faithful that pilgrim in great numbers to the sanctuary. Besides the construction of the new basilica, houses are being constructed to allow more people to pilgrim during the celebrations of the Great Jubilee.

      The great example of Christian life manifested throughout Father Pio's life attracts thousands of pilgrims every year to the Sanctuary of San Giovanni Rotondo. In view of the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000, a great amount of faithful are expected to pilgrim to this sanctuary in the region of Foggia, Italy. As announced some weeks ago, the Capuchin priest will be beatified by Pope John Paul II in May, 2 this year.