BENEDICT XVI TO RETURN TO VATICAN

29-09-2008

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy, SEPT. 28, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI will return to the Vatican this week, concluding his stay at the papal summer residence of Castel Gandolfo.

The Pope made this announcement after praying the Angelus with the crowds gathered in the courtyard of the apostolic palace in the Italian town, located just 19 miles to the south of Rome.

"Summer has come to an end and I will return to the Vatican the day after tomorrow," the Pontiff said.

He has been residing in the Castel Gandolfo since July 2.

"I thank the Lord for all the gifts he has bestowed upon me during this time," the Pontiff said. "I think especially of World Youth Day in Sydney, the period of rest in Bressanone, the visit to Sardinia and the apostolic trip to Paris and Lourdes; and I think of the possibility of sojourning here in this house, where I am better able to rest and work during the hottest months."

Before leaving he directed an affectionate greeting to the community of Castel Gandolfo, with a heartfelt thank you to the bishop, the mayor and the various police departments."
http://www.zenit.org/article-23743?l=english