Recent papal actions fuel speculation of October trip to Mexico

Published: 2004-06-23

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II's recent proclamation of a "eucharistic year" and his advancement of 13 Mexican sainthood causes has fueled speculation that he plans to travel to Mexico in October. Mexican organizers of the Oct. 10-17 International Eucharistic Congress in Guadalajara long ago invited the pope to attend. Vatican officials, citing the chronic health and mobility problems of the 84-year-old pontiff, downplayed the possibility. In mid-June, however, the pope raised the profile of the Mexican congress by declaring it the start of special year dedicated to the Eucharist. The goal, he said, was to highlight the importance of the Eucharist for spiritual life and missionary tasks of the 21st century. Vatican sources said opening the eucharistic year was the biggest reason the pope wants to make the Mexico trip, but other possible events, including the beatification of the 13 Mexican martyrs, are also being considered. On June 22, the pope officially approved the advancement of their causes, which clears the way for their beatification.

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