_WORLD WATCH______________________________
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Invitation to Pope
Orthodox leadership may not agree
President Constantinos Stephanopoulos of Greece has issued an informal invitation for Pope John Paul II to visit that country.
During a private meeting with the Pontiff on January 25, the Greek president broached the possibility of a papal visit. Vatican spokesmen indicated that they are awaiting a formal invitation.
Pope John Paul reportedly thanked Stephanopoulos for his suggestion. He has in the past expressed his hope to visit Greece, continuing in his personal pilgrimage, following the footsteps of St. Paul. However, difficulties in relations with the Greek Orthodox Church have deterred the Vatican from pursuing the idea energetically.