IN MEMORIAM of Pope John Paul



MESSAGE TO THE VATICAN

(Français)
A S. E. R.
Cardinal Angelo Sodano
Segretario di Stato
Città del Vaticano

The Scouts of the world, whatever their religions, are united in their sorrow over the death of the Holy Father, Pope Jean Paul II. We remember him for his faith in young people, and his affection and appreciation for Scouting in all nations and territories.

The World Organization of the Scout Movement, and its World Scout Committee, share the pain, the prayers and the mourning of all Scouts, leaders, and other members in the Catholic Church at this sad time.

Dr. Marie-Louise Correa
Chairman, World Scout Committee

Dr. Eduardo Missoni
Secretary General, World Organization of the Scout Movement

The Pope Leaves Scouts a Grand Spiritual Heritage
Karol Woytila, Jean Paul II has been a great friend of Scouts, and of the Scout Movement. He never missed an opportunity to speak of his appreciation of Scouting for the values expressed in its universal Promise and Law, and for its educational method.

He knew and admired the writings of Scouting's Founder, Robert-Baden Powell. Jean Paul II often cited the Founder in his numerous messages to Scouts in many cultures, always underlining the great importance of the spiritual dimension in the Scouting.

He invited young people and leaders to remember this fundamental aspect of Scouting's education. "Youth are a treasure. I think of your method, your educational programme, and that to be a Scout means to be close to nature, to appreciate its beauty, to understand its creation, and to respect mankind."

We will always remember his great human and spiritual stature, and his tireless efforts for the respect and dignity of all people, the rights of children and young people, for the poor and those who are defenseless as well as his many works for peace, liberty, and social justice.