JOHN PAUL II ENCOURAGES FAITHFUL TO GO TO CHRIST THROUGH MARY
Message to Pilgrims from Naples

VATICAN CITY, JULY 14 (ZENIT.org).- John Paul II did not allow
the holiday he is enjoying in the Italian Alps to keep him from
sending a message to the Italian city of Naples on the 5th
centenary of the pilgrimage, when a group of faithful carried one
of the most beautiful icons of Mary, the "Dark Virgin," from
Naples to Rome.

"This event gave rise to the celebrated practice of the
Wednesdays of Carmel, an expression of Marian devotion, in which,
as is the case in this type of manifestation of popular faith, it
is possible to perceive a reflection of Most Holy Mary's maternal
goodness," the Holy Father recalled.

"During our earthly pilgrimage, Mary is the biblical 'pillar of
fire' that illuminates us, the 'star that guides us' towards the
heavenly homeland, the 'safe port' where consolation and refuge
are found. Led by her, believers go forward in confidence, aware
of her tender presence, which constantly leads to Christ."