Mexico Bids Pope Farewell
Cheering crowds lined Pope John Paul II's route to the airport Tuesday as the pontiff ended his triumphant five-day trip to Mexico. Waving banners emblazoned with his portrait, the adoring crowds wished John Paul a heartfelt "adios" as he left for St. Louis, where he will continue his mission of strengthening ties among Catholics in the Americas and giving new direction to his flock on the eve of the third millennium.
On Monday evening, the pope's final public appearance in Mexico City drew more than 100,000 of the faithful to Azteca Stadium. CBS News Correspondent Manuel Gallegus reports that the atmosphere in the stadium resembled a sporting event, with the crowd doing the wave and chanting "John Paul II, the world loves you."
The frail, 78-year-old pontiff seemed moved, rising from his chair and declaring, "I feel like a Mexican."
John Paul used his third visit to Mexico to outline the Catholic Church's strategy for the Americas at the dawn of the new millennium. The church is concerned about losing members to other religions and losing its appeal to the young.
The pope urged Catholics to be more vigorous in their defense of the faith against Protestant groups that have been making inroads in Latin America. He also stressed the need to preach to both rich and poor.
Church leaders visiting Mexico for the pope's visit say they must improve relations back home. Father Juan Rivas from the United States vowed to "get involved in evangelization from house to house. In the streets, in the neighborhood. That's the way we're going to convert the other people."
While in Mexico, John Paul signed a declaration condemning the evils of exploitative capitalism, abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment. At the Azteca Stadium rally, he decried drug trafficking, corruption and other perils of modern society. "Only faith in Christ gives rise to a culture contrary to selfishness and death," he said.
Religious solidarity is less of an issue in Mexico, which is 90 percent Roman Catholic, than elsewhere in the Americas. Over the past four days, millions have lined streets and packed venues for a glimpse of the pope on what is likely his last visit here.
Maria Teresa Pulido, 28, went to the Azteca Stadium celebration, but said it wasn't enough. She returned with her 6-year-old son Rafael at 2 a.m. to stake out a spot on John Paul's route.
"I wanted to see him one more time. It's the last chance that I'll have," she said. "He tells you with a strong conviction what you have to do for your children to prepare them for the new millennium."
Marielena Toledo, 71, traveled to Mexico City from the northern city of Culiacan. She managed to see the pope every day of his visit.
"He transmits a very pretty vibration," she said. "I imagine this is what it felt like when our Lord Jesus Christ was with us."