Sixty thousand people welcomed the remains of John Paul II

San Vittore Church greeted the remains of Pope John Paul II. With celebration of the Holy Mass, by Monsignor Stucchi, assisted by Monsignor Donnini, and by many parish priests and prelates from Varese, the week of adoration of the blessed Pope came to an end. Tomorrow, Monday 2 December, the shrine containing the blood of the blessed John Paul II will return to the Roman monastery that normally houses it.

A great many followers came, and a lot of people waited in front of the church, for the opportunity to have holy communion at the end of the celebration.

During the sermon, Monsignor Stucchi remembered the figure of John Paul II, his commitment to the Church and to the communion of the people. He emphasised his great desire and predisposition for meeting, his lack of fear of, or subjection to power. “An example to be inspired by, to stop the West from becoming anaemic and bloodless.”

The Mass, which lasted an hour and a half, ended with thanks by Monsignor Donnini, who emphasised the organisational ability and commitment showed by the various communities and associations who took turns during the week to receive those who came to worship the remains. “It was a lovely example of Church at the end of this year of faith.” Thanks also went to the forces of law and order, to the Italian Alpine troops, to the Civil Defence, to the Red Cross and to SOS Malnate, who contributed in organising the event wanted by San Vittore Church and by the Deanery of Varese, with the support of Varese town council and the collaboration of the “Paolo VI” Foundation for Sacro Monte, and movements and associations in the town.

The organisation and team of stewards allowed over 60,000 people to participate in the various celebrations and cultural events, visiting the church and the exhibition in the baptistery of San Giovanni. There were many people who prayed in Sacro Monte, in the Miogni Prison and in the Circolo Hospital, from 25 November to 2 December. People came from many provinces in Lombardy, and from Piedmont.

Fifty thousand holy pictures, 30,000 programs, 20,000 lights and 10,000 Eucharists were distributed.