I have received with joy the message which you sent on behalf of the joint international commission meeting in Emmitsburg for the eighth plenary session. I am most grateful for this sign of fellowship in the Lord and I assure you of my fervent prayers that the triune God will enlighten the minds and warm the hearts of all involved in this important theological dialogue. I am convinced that the work of the Joint Commission has an essential role in the efforts of the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Churches to seek the restoration of full communion in accordance with the will of Jesus Christ. I therefore commend the members of the commission to the prayers of the All-Holy Mother of God, invoking upon them the grace and strength of the Holy Spirit, who will always complete whatever is lacking and guide this vital work to a good conclusion. To you and to all taking part in the plenary session I send cordial and fraternal greetings in the Lord.

Joannes Paulus PP.II