These are just some of the areas of activity that the Foundation can undertake thanks to the generosity of you and people of good will from all over the world. I trust that the words of the Apostle are fulfilled and that those who exercise this ministry “while in prayer on your behalf they long for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Cor 9:14-15). I also believe that this work not only bears external fruit, but also internally shapes individuals and entire communities. According to the Apostle, the “joyful giver” who shares with others the need of the heart, “without repentance or without feeling compelled”, becomes “rich in good works”, deserves God’s love and abounds in His graces, and thus “the yield of his justice increases”. From this goodness and justice arises a lively sense of solidarity with others, which unites the various communities. Your presence here is an eloquent proof of this. You come not only from the countries of Europe, but also from North and South America, and even from distant Indonesia. New Chapters of Friends of the Foundation are created in different parts of the world, new contacts are established, a great community of people who want to join the same work is created. Today we thank God for the grace of this union in the good.
Yesterday new plaques were blessed, on which are written the names of many of you, as well as other donors. It is an external sign of gratitude to those who respond most generously to the needs of the Foundation. It is known, however, that there are countless people who give their prayers, sufferings, and often “widow’s penny”. I would also like to mention them here with great gratitude. May the good Lord repay to all with His graces.
(Speech to the benefactors of the John Paul II Foundation. Vatican, October 29, 1998)
Do not stop in this good work. Papal Speeches to the John Paul II Foundation
John Paul II Foundation &Centre for Documentation and Study of the Pontificate of John Paul II, Rome 2012
