Opening Remarks by His Excellency Archbishop Renato R. Martino

 Apostolic Nuncio, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations

Your Serene Highness,
Your Eminence,
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Gathering today in these distinguished halls of the United Nations we reflect back on the events of seven months ago, when His Holiness Pope John Paul II journeyed to Headquarters in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of this world body. In his speech upon arriving at Newark International Airport, the Holy Father declared the purpose of his historical visit when he said: "I come as a pilgrim of peace and understanding among peoples. . . In observance of the United Nations' 50th Anniversary, I shall return there to express my deep conviction that the ideals and intentions which gave origin to that worldwide organization half a century ago are more indispensable than ever in a world searching for purpose." He went on to say: "The world, in fact, is undergoing a profound transformation. Opportunities for justice, reconciliation and development are visible in parts of the world where they were hardly discernible even a few years ago -- almost within our reach, it seems, but still so difficult to grasp. Ancient rivalries and suspicions still compromise the cause of peace. We must find ways to set them aside. If we do not, history and the Lord of history will judge us harshly."

In the months since the visit of His Holiness, I have asked myself, many times over: What was it about the Holy Father that caused millions of people to desire to see and hear him, whose presence moved more than a few news reporters to tears? Why, at a stadium Mass, could not the waters of a driving rain wash away the smiles, the excitement, and the spirit of prayer, so evident on the faces of thousands of drenched pilgrims? And what was it about his visit to United Nations Headquarters that led to it being described, by those who saw him and heard his words, as "the best anniversary gift of all"?

Perhaps it is because the Holy See which, lacking geographical boundaries and particular political, economic and military interests, is able to speak on behalf of the human person from a universal viewpoint. Perhaps it is because the Catholic Church, from its very beginning, constitutes a multiplicity of peoples and cultures gathered in unity.

While these may be true, may I offer a deeper and clearer reason for the success of the Holy Father's visit. Perhaps it was because Pope John Paul II, like his Lord and Master, came to "bear witness to the truth" (Jn 18:37). Perhaps it was because His Holiness is keenly aware that every member of the human family is oriented, by our very nature, toward this truth. And even those who militate against it by their words and deeds are, in their heart of hearts, innately drawn to its fire, its purity, its beauty.

Dear friends,

It is my hope that, through the presentations offered to us this afternoon, we may come to know and appreciate more fully, the Truth offered by His Holiness in his address to the United Nations Organization. For it is a truth which, for believers and non-believers, for individuals and nations, will set us free and unite us as brothers and sisters -- indeed, as a family of nations.