Pope: Entertainers Have Responsibilities
Pope John Paul said on Sunday that entertainment should be free from economic or ideological influences and be a positive model for society.
"Don't let mere economic or ideological interests influence you," the Pope told a colorful crowd of actors, jugglers and circus workers gathered in St Peter's Square for a mass marking a jubilee day for the entertainment industry, one of the Catholic Church's Holy Year events.
"Be always positive and coherent models, capable of instilling confidence, optimism and hope.
"This is the fundamental principle of social communication, which each one of you should apply in your field of work," the Pontiff, clad in purple and gold, said.
The mass at St Peter's Square was attended by several well-known Italian actors such as Alberto Sordi, who acted in many Italian films in the 1950s and 1960s, including Federico Fellini's I Vitelloni.
A delegation from Hollywood was also present.
The 80-year-old Pontiff said that "healthy entertainment" was good for both the body and the soul.
"Society must therefore be grateful to those who produce and make intelligent and relaxing programs, which are entertaining without being alienating, humorous but not vulgar," he added.
The entertainers' Jubilee was the latest in a year of 2000 Holy Year days for the Roman Catholic Church dedicated to various segments of society, particularly for trades.
Jugglers, clowns and stilt-walkers did their utmost to turn St. Peter's Square into a circus ring for the day. They were joined by marching bands and other entertainers.
One jarring moment came during the service when a microphone appeared to catch the pope drawing three shallow gasps for breath, however.
His face stiffened by symptoms that match those of Parkinson's, the 80-year-old pontiff, in purple robes, showed little emotion even when a monk in a red rubber nose brought a clown before the pope for his blessing.
John Paul paid tribute to the entertainers, many of them itinerant circus and amusement park workers, for the 'joy' they bring, praising "healthy amusement that does the body and spirit good."
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