Despite busy schedule, pope takes time to greet Austrian children

Published: 2007-09-10

VIENNA, Austria (CNS) -- In the middle of his busiest day in Austria, Pope Benedict XVI took time to greet children and thank them for the letters and drawings they sent him. The pope chatted briefly with the young Austrian members of Missio, the Catholic aid agency, after a Mass in Vienna Sept. 9. Before the pope's visit, they had sent the pontiff a book of individual notes and sketches expressing their excitement about the trip. Addressed to "Lieber Papst" ("Dear Pope"), the letters called the pope "cool," spoke of the preparations for his coming and offered details of the children's lives, including their big interests and favorite soccer teams. The pope returned the favor with a brief letter of his own. Calling the children his "small co-workers," he thanked them for their wishes and for their participation in Missio, which aids children around the world.

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