Message of Congratulations from Pope John Paul II

UNCLAS VATICAN 004242 SIPDIS DEPT FOR EUR/WE-JLevin; DEPT please pass to NSC E.O. 12958 N/A TAGS: PREL VT SUBJECT: Message of Congratulations from Pope John Paul II to President George W. Bush REF: Hardt-Levin 11/4 fax ¶1. The Ambassador was asked by Holy See Secretary of State Cardinal Angelo Sodano to convey the following message from Pope John Paul II to President Bush. Mr. George W. Bush President The United States of America On the occasion of your re-election as President of the United States of American I send cordial greetings and best wishes, and I ask almighty God to assist you in your responsibilities in the service of the Nation and the international community. May the Lord's abundant blessings sustain you and the beloved people of the United States in meeting the many challenges which lie ahead. IOANNES PAULUS PP. II" ¶2. Cardinal Sodano also asked the Ambassador to convey to the President his "heartfelt congratulations and a promise of my prayer, as he prepares to serve the people of the United States for another term of office." ¶3. A copy of the original (faxed) message was sent to EUR/WE (ref). Nicholson NNNN