The news from Rome is that the head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II, is seriously ill. Millions of people around the world are praying for his recovery. During TV newscasts, the pope is being called "Holy Father" many, many times. President Bush released a statement, saying, "The Holy Father is in our thoughts and prayers and we wish him a speedy recovery ..." Friends, we, too, are saddened to see the failing health of our fellowman. However, we are more saddened in hearing millions of people calling this man "Holy Father!" We, too, join in prayer for his recovery, but to whom do we pray?

Jesus taught, "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name." Matthew 6:9. "... holy and reverend is his name." Psalm 111:9. Our Lord has commanded, in a religious sense, to "... call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven." Matthew 23:9. Yes, we pray for John Paul II, that he may recover that he may repent of his arrogance and blasphemy against the one, true, Holy Father in heaven. We also pray for all of those who are following his false ways, that they may see the truth of God's Word before it is too late. Please read 2 Thessalonians 2. Albert.

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