” “"A father and an elder brother who encouraged us and spurred us in our mission". With these words, mgr. André Vingt-Trois, archbishop of Paris, outlines the figure of John Paul II. On Sunday 2nd April, the archbishp will celebrate Mass in memory of Pope Wojtyla in the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris and, with the same intent, the night before, Saturday 1st April, many parish churches of the capital will hold vigils of prayer and meditated rosaries. "The momory I retain of Pope John Paul II he says in a statement to SIR are countless. I remember three. The one of his first Mass, in Saint Peter’s Square, marked by the news of the tone of his voice and the strength of the message: "Don’t be afraid!". The one of his first apostolic journey to France and the friendly power that radiated from his presence: "France, what have you done of your baptism?". And finally the memory of a lunch with him and some French bishops and the affectionate interest with which he questioned us about the situation and the mission of the Church in our country". ” “
