USA: NEW YORK: POPE JOHN PAUL II LEADS MASS IN CENTRAL PARK

(7 Oct 1995) English/Nat
The Pope led tens of thousands of Americans in an open air mass in New York's Central Park Saturday.
During his US trip, Pope John Paul II has not fought shy of addressing Americans about the widening gap between rich and poor in the U-S.
The poverty gap is a sensitive issue in a country where the religious right are talking of cutting back America's welfare spending.
The Pope has not shied away from controversial social and sexual issues that are political hot potatoes in America.
Priestly celibacy, the place of the family, and above all- abortion- have been familiar and constant themes on the Pontiff's lips.
When he appeared at New York's favourite recreation spot, Central park, on Saturday, the crowds were warm in their welcome.
He let them see him in his familiar Popemobile.
But the Pope stressed the value of human life in one of the world's hardest cities:
SOUNDBITE:
Every life is a gift from God our creator and thus we must give an account to God of how we use it either for good or for evil.
SUPER CAPTION: Pope John Paul II
Thousands of New Yorkers thronged the park to see the Pontiff celebrate an outdoor Mass.
And he let them know that it would be a long time before he forgot the warmth of their welcome.
SOUNDBITE:
Then you can tell the whole world that you gave the Pope his Christmas present already in October in New York in Central Park.
SUPER CAPTION: Pope John Paul II
The Pope ends his visit to the US tomorrow.
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[@jeffdon4]

i was there at the Central Park mass with members of my college religious group. we were selected to be ushers,,,,i still have my shirt and badge...seems so strange that almost 20 years ago...almost to the month that pope francis comes to NYC,,,,

[@ronsadventures2007]

I was there i remember it was oudy and before mass the pope said good morning no rain..no sun eithet

[@EVERTONFC.]

Go ed x