Greeting of His Holiness Pope John Paul II from young Ukrainian families

HOLY FATHER!

Today, when we have the great grace from God to bring our prayers before His heavenly throne together with Your Holiness, we want to ask Our Heavenly Father for light on life's road to guide our newly created and still young families.

In a community of persons called a "family" we have just started on a new path in life, a path still unfamiliar to us. Before us lies the path which we will take together, as we struggle on the steep path of worries and stride on the level ground of joys. We assure you, Holy Father, that awareness of God's presence on this road and of His open embrace at its end will not allow us to stand still or to go down the wrong path.

Holy Father! In your pastoral service of God and humanity with special attention you look into the hearts of each family. We young Ukrainian families sincerely desire that you will continue to care for us with this same love and concern, blessing us with your prayer, instructing us with your word, sharing our problems and our joys.

The day will come when our children will ask us: "Which way should we go?" At that moment responsible parenthood should speak from our mouths-that parenthood about which you have taught us since the beginning of your pontificate. Parenthood speaks, especially your parenthood, Holy Father. With such an example, without a doubt the way which our children will take will be the way of faith.

Holy Father! Give us your blessing so that with your prayers we will not fear to be holy, following the family of Nazareth, so that Christ will always be the head of our families and you, Holy Father, our helper!

Religious Information Service of Ukraine 26.06.2001 (21:10)
26. juni 2001