Letter to Pope John Paul II from President Ronald Reagan, 05/21/1981

the 025877 DECLASSIFIED White House Guidelines, August 28, 1997 NARA, Date 4/29/08 3100 By LCOB MG 4500 THE WHITE HOUSE M9001-03 WASHINGTON M9001-02 May 21, 1981 JL003-01 GI002 Your Holiness: (John Paul #) C0170 I have asked my friend Peter Rodino to convey RM031 these words directly to you, written at a time when the whole Christian community and people FGOII of all faiths everywhere have reason to rejoice. I join them in expressing my relief and my FG038 delight in the encouraging news of your recovery. FG006-12 I join them, too, in wishing you a happy 61st birthday -- with your safe passage you have given all of us the best birthday present imaginable! Happily, few leaders in the world today have the dubious distinction of knowing with some precision the kind of event you have just experienced. Fewer still can appreciate, as can I, the depth of courage and commitment on which you must have called, not only to survive that horrible event but to do SO with such grace, nobility, and for- giveness. Your heroism, and the universal outpouring of love and concern which it evoked, is proof that a single irrational act cannot prevail against the basic human decency which continues to inspire most people in most places. The qualities you exemplify remain a precious asset as we confront the growing dangers of the moment confront them with confidence and faith. May I also take the opportunity of this letter to thank you for the silver plaque which you sent to me through Secretary Haig. The inscription is particularly appropriate to these troubled times. NSC # 8102754 DD NSC # 8102813 DD Messages re the recovery of the from President y Vice President