Father Ho Lung and Pope John Paul II.

Jamaica welcomed for the first time, the head of the Roman Catholic Church when Pope John Paul 11 blessed the island on a three-day stay.

The atmosphere at the Home for the Poor on Gold Street in Kingston was a joyous one when, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Seymour Mullings, the Pope visited and met the Mother Teresa Sisters, immaculately dressed in white saris with blue trim. Joining them were Father Richard Ho Lung and the Brothers of the Poor, as well as other members of the Roman Catholic clergy.

Courtesy visit

Everywhere there were rosary beads, Vatican state flags and souvenir fans with the Pope’s image.

Later, he visited King’s House, where he was greeted by Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke. They were joined by Prime Minister P.J. Patterson. The following day, the Pope received a courtesy visit from Opposition Leader Edward Seaga.

The highlight of the papal visit was a celebratory Mass at the National Stadium.