Pope Addressed Contemplative Religious and on Safe Driving

(Novembeer 17, 2008) Pope Benedict XVI is inviting the faithful to support religious communities of men and women who dedicate themselves exclusively to prayer. The Pope launched his appeal after praying today's midday Angelus in St. Peter's Square. He noted that Nov. 21, the feast of the Presentation of Mary in the Temple, is also the day "pro orantibus," that is, "for those who pray," in particular cloistered religious communities. "Let us thank the Lord for the sisters and brothers who have embraced this mission, dedicating themselves completely to prayer and living off what Providence gives them," the Pontiff said. The Pope then addressed to men and women contemplatives to tell them that their "presence in the Church and the world is indispensable." "We are with you," he concluded, "and we bless you with great affection!"
Pope Benedict then urged drivers to follow St. Paul's advice: Be awake and sober. After Sunday’s midday Angelus, the Pope spoke of the tragedy of traffic accidents. Worldwide organizations mark today the U.N.-sponsored World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. The initiative, the Holy Father said, aims to recall "in a special way all of those who have died from car accidents." "Let us pray for their eternal repose and for the consolation of their families who are mourning their loss," he said. "Dear brothers and sisters, I implore everyone -- drivers, passengers and pedestrians -- to listen carefully to the words of St. Paul in today's Liturgy of the Word: ‘Let us be awake and sober.'"