Acta Benedicti Pp. XVI 835

Mission of the Church" - will enable many of the specific issues of our theo-

logical dialogue to find their proper context and resolution.

Surely the growth in understanding, respect and cooperation which has

emerged from ecumenical dialogue promises much for the proclamation of the

Gospel in our time. Throughout the world Armenians live side by side with

the faithful of the Catholic Church. An increased understanding and appre-

ciation of the apostolic tradition which we share will contribute to an ever

more effective common witness to the spiritual and moral values without

which a truly just and humane social order cannot exist. For this reason, I

trust that new and practical means will be found to give expression to the

common declarations we have already signed.

Your Holiness, I cannot fail to assure you of my daily prayers and deep

concern for the people of Lebanon and the Middle East. How can we not be

grieved by the tensions and conflicts which continue to frustrate all efforts to

foster reconciliation and peace at every level of civil and political life in the

region? Most recently we have all been saddened by the escalation of perse-

cution and violence against Christians in parts of the Middle East and else-

where. Only when the countries involved can determine their own destiny,

and the various ethnic groups and religious communities accept and respect

each other fully, will peace be built on the solid foundations of solidarity,

justice and respect for the legitimate rights of individuals and peoples.

With these sentiments and with affection in the Lord, I thank Your

Holiness for your visit, and I express my hope that these days spent in Rome

will be a source of many graces for you and for all those entrusted to your

pastoral care. Upon you and all the faithful of the Armenian Apostolic

Church I invoke an abundance of joy and peace in the Lord.