"Before leaving Castel Gandolfo, I wish to give a word of friendly gratitude to each one of you, who have helped in many ways to make my summer holidays healthy and relaxing": these are the opening words of the greeting given by Benedict XVI to the civil and religious authorities, the Vatican staff, the representatives of the police who assist the Pontiff, and all the staff in his retinue during his summer holidays in Castel Gandolfo. "The Pope he began relies on your spiritual support and prays for you". A special thought went to the authorities and the population of Castel Gandolfo: "Everyone knows the friendly and welcoming style which is the trademark of your city and its population; a reception that is not given to the Pope only, but also to the many pilgrims who come to visit him, especially on Sundays, for the usual Angelus prayer". Then, Benedict XVI also thanked the medical staff, the Italian police and the airmen of the 31st wing who take him to and from Rome. Finally, a thought for all those people who provide "hidden services" and "sacrifice themselves" to serve the Pope.
