Pope Condemns War, Terrorism

A fatigued but determined Pope John Paul II read his traditional Christmas Day blessing Thursday to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square and prayed for salvation from the evils of war and terrorism.

Although the infirm 83-year-old pontiff looked tired after having presided over midnight Mass hours earlier, he completed his noontime remarks and Christmas Day greeting, which he delivered in 62 languages.

Vatican observers said he looked stronger during his Christmas appearances than he did during celebrations in October marking his 25th anniversary as pope, when he seemed especially frail and was unable to deliver some readings.

“Save us from the great evils which lacerate humanity in this beginning of the third millennium,” John Paul said in his Christmas Day appearance. “Save us from the wars and the armed conflicts that devastate entire regions of the globe, from the plague of terrorism and the many forms of violence that afflict weak and helpless people.”

Despite the pope’s chronic maladies, he may still proceed with four planned trips to other parts of Europe and to Mexico in 2004, Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls said Thursday.

“He hasn’t decided yet, but he hasn’t canceled them,” Navarro-Valls said. “The vitality of his thoughts is still intact, as demonstrated by recent statements, including his messages about peace and immigration.”

The pontiff has received invitations to events in Switzerland, France, Austria and Mexico in the coming year, Navarro-Valls said.

John Paul is expected to lead prayers and Mass for New Year’s next week, but will not participate in two traditional Vatican events in January -- an ordination of bishops and baptisms -- because of concerns for his health, according to news reports.

On Thursday, the pope smiled from his ceremonial chair as he was wheeled in to deliver the “Urbi et Orbi” (Latin for “To the City and the World”) message from the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica. He read slowly and haltingly, sometimes interrupted by applause and song from thousands of worshipers in the square.

At midnight Mass, the pope had seemed in stronger form when he presided over a service that lasted more than 90 minutes. He appealed for peace and tolerance.

“Save us from discouragement as we face the paths to peace, difficult paths indeed, yet possible and therefore necessary,” the pope said.

*

Times staff writer Rotella reported from Barcelona, Spain, and special correspondent Sarasola from Rome.