“We thank the Lord for the many years of Pope John Paul II's service to the Church, and especially for his strong stance against the violation of human rights by political forces contrary to the true dignity of all people.

“Confident in God's continuing powerful presence within the Church, we pray for Pope John Paul and seek divine guidance in the selection of a worthy successor to the Chair of Peter at Rome. May the Risen Lord bless us all during this time of loss and new beginnings.”