Pope John Paul II has stated that Mother Teresa is a precious gift given by God to the poorest of the poor. The Pope was delivering the memorial speech in connection with the first anniversary of Mother Teresa's death. The Pope added that she was an extraordinary gift given to the world and to the Church in particular. Jesus was living and walking with the poor through the smiles, the words and actions of Mother Teresa. Even today Jesus continues this journey among the poor through those who serve them. Let us cultivate respect for the human individual and the mentality that will enable us to stand for human rights, said the Pope.
 
 

What the modern man needs is not horoscope or astrology. Rather it is prayer, said the Pope. Believers should pray to the Holy Spirit for the wisdom that comes from him. The fountain of all wisdom which we have treasured for the past hundreds of years is the Holy Spirit. The Pope reminded the people that the official prayers of the Church to the Holy Spirit are highly efficacious to gain divine wisdom.
 
 

Rays of truth can be seen in Non-Christian religions though they may not accept Jesus as the Saviour of mankind-so said Pope John Paul II on Sept. 9 to a large crowd gathered at the Vatican. All world religions partially radiate the light of the divine Word of God made flesh. Man's search for God and his goodness come from God.That is why the Church views other religions with respect. The Church, however, understands and acknowledges Jesus as the only Saviour and Mediator.
 
 

Sunday Times reports that people are turning to prayer to outlive the financial crisis that is overtaking the people of Asia, particularly in Singapore. Their chief prayer is for strength to face the economic strain. Reports from there say there are more non-Catholics than Catholics going to church to pray. Family prayer has also become more intense. Several workers in Singapore have already lost their jobs.