The Holy Father's Final Words at the Cathedral Basilica

As
my visit to St. Louis comes to an end, I wish to express my appreciation
to Vice President and Mrs. Gore for greeting me before my departure
for Rome. I thank those associated with the Federal Government for
all that they have done to make this visit possible.

My gratitude goes to the Governor of the State of Missouri,
and to the Mayor of the City of St. Louis, and to all the members
of their staffs. I thank the Police and all those who have done so
much for security and public order. I thank the civic and business
communities of St. Louis for the support they have given.

The welcome extended to me by my fellow Christians and by the
members of other religious communities has been most gracious.
I hope you will accept my sincere thanks and the assurance of my friendship
in the cause of ecumenism and interreligious dialogue and cooperation.

It has been a moving experience to visit the people of St. Louis.
I would have wished to meet personally each one of the young people
at the Kiel Center, and all the many other people at the Trans World
Dome, and here in the Cathedral Basilica, as well as along the routes
and at the Airport.

A word of thanks goes to the Cardinals and my brother Bishops
of the United States who have come to St. Louis. It was a pleasure
to know that so many other Dioceses sent representatives. I am grateful
to you all.

In particular I wish to say thanks to the local Church of St.
Louis. I am indebted to all the many dedicated people – organizers,
committee members and volunteers – who have labored long and
hard behind the scenes. Nor do I forget the hidden but effective support
of all who prayed for the spiritual outcome of this event, especially
the contemplatives in their monasteries. A special word of
thanks and appreciation is due to Archbishop Rigali, who just
two days ago celebrated his fifth anniversary as your dedicated Pastor.

A few months ago, a pilgrimage from St. Louis came to Rome. We met
on the steps of St. Peters, where they sang to me: "Meet me in
St. Louis. . . meet me at the Dome!" With God’s help, we
have done it. I will always remember St. Louis. I will remember all
of you.

God bless St. Louis!

God bless America!