"URBI ET ORBI" APOSTOLIC BLESSING

FIRST GREETING OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI

Central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica
Tuesday, 19 April 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

After the great Pope John Paul II, the Cardinals have elected me, a simple and humble labourer in the vineyard of the Lord.

The fact that the Lord knows how to work and to act even with inadequate instruments comforts me, and above all I entrust myself to your prayers.

Let us move forward in the joy of the Risen Lord, confident of his unfailing help. The Lord will help us and Mary, his Most Holy Mother, will be on our side. Thank you.

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