JOURNEY TO INDIA

ADDRESS OF POPE PAUL VI
TO THE POPULATION OF BOMBAY

Friday, 4 December 1964

We are grateful to you for this meeting, since it affords Us an opportunity to express Our admiration for this great city, the Gateway of India. In Our memory, Bombay will remain as the symbol and epitome of the great Continent of Asia, with its ancient cultures and traditions, with its vast populations, with its earnest desire for peace.

This immense metropolis facing the sea has found its way into Our heart, and We embrace its people with truly paternal affection. We wish them well in all their undertakings for greater prosperity in harmony with all the peoples of India and of the world. We encourage the efforts made by the municipal, civic and national authorities for the greater welfare and happiness of al citizens, in respect of the dignity of the human person and of its inalienable and sacred rights.

It is then through you that We salute with benevolence and good will the population of Bombay, as well as the entire Indian people; and upon you and an abundance of choicest graces and favours.