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Archbishop Paul J. Hallinan, recovering well from his six
months’ hospitalization, but still under doctor’s care, will not
attend the Third Session of the Vatican Council which opens in Rome September
14. It is possible that he may go to Rome for the closing days of the Session
in November.
A limited work schedule permits several hours at the office each
day, and carrying out of all administrative duties and public appearances, but
the doctors believe that the diet, bed rest, and regular check ups can be
carried out more effectively at home than in Rome.
The archbishop plans to write a series of news articles on the
issues of this session for The Georgia Bulletin and will be in touch
with other American and European bishops on council affairs. He will serve the
American bishops as secretary of the United States Liturgical Consilium (with
Cardinal Ritter) in the revision of the rites of the Mass, the sacraments and
the Office. He will also continue to serve as a member of the International
Committee for a Common English Text with representatives of other
English-speaking nations.
Pope Paul VI has dispensed Archbishop Hallinan from attendance at
the Third Session according to a communication received from the Papal
Secretary of State, Amleto Cardinal Cicognani. The letter, received August 28,
reads: Your Excellency,
I acknowledge receipt of your letter of August 17th with which you
communicate that it will be impossible for you to attend the Third Session of
the II Vatican Ecumenical Council due to the medical care to which Your
Excellency must subject yourself regularly.
It is consoling to learn that the worst is over, and I can only
agree with the doctors that you should remain under their watchful eyes until
everything is quite in order. Your anxiety to be present for the Third Session
is understandable, and so I hope that there is a marked change in the
restrictions due to rapid progress towards a complete recovery.
The Holy Father has dispensed you from attendance at this Session
of the Council, and I will inform the General Secretariat of this decision.
I promise you a constant remembrance in my prayers and Masses for
a quick and complete recovery. Prayerful good wishes.
With kindest personal regards, I am
Sincerely yours in Christ,
A. G. Cardinal Cicogani |
