Pope hails Croatian families on pilgrimage
The 83-year-old pope, outside the Vatican on a Pentecost yesterday for the first time as he continued his 100th foreign pilgrimage, encouraged young Croats to marry, raise families and help their children overcome temptations and walk "the path that leads to authentic joy".
"You are an important part of society and the church," John Paul told families among at least 100,000 pilgrims gathered at the Adriatic port of Rijeka, some of whom spent the night lighting candles and praying.
The pope said he empathised with the struggle of families in this ex-Yugoslav republic, and he urged the country's politicians not to ignore their plight. Joblessness in Croatia is about 20%, and the average monthly wage is just 3,500 kuna (stg£270).
"It must not be forgotten that in helping the family, we also help to resolve other important problems, such as providing assistance to the sick and the elderly, stopping the spread of crime and finding a remedy to drug use," John Paul said.
As in much of Europe, many young couples in this overwhelmingly Roman Catholic nation tend to live together out of wedlock.
The pope singled them out, saying they should not be afraid of "a bond which is publicly manifested and recognised".
Although his voice was clear and strong, the frail pontiff looked tired and drawn, shielded by a canopy from 28C temperatures (82F) and climbing by midmorning.
But John Paul nearing the end of a draining, five-day, five-city trip in often sweltering heat that was blamed for the deaths of two pilgrims in eastern Croatia yesterday has shown a stamina that has surprised even his Vatican entourage.
"He is amazing," said papal spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls.
"What you can see everywhere is the inner strength of this man who keeps going without even asking: 'Am I tired? Is this too much?' He just keeps the pace the pace he has imposed on himself."
This is the Pope's third visit to Croatia in nine years.
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